Baked French Toast

Name: Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 8 slices of bread (brioche or challah); 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Maple syrup for serving

Start your day with a warm, comforting serving of baked French toast, a dish that combines soft, pillowy bread with a rich custard mixture, baked to perfection. Topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, it’s an irresistible breakfast treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress. Whether for a family gathering or a quiet morning, this recipe will elevate your breakfast experience!

Ingredients

– 8 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Maple syrup for serving

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 35 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) of baked French toast contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 15g
– Sugar: 10g
This is based on a standard serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
3. Arrange the bread slices in a single layer in the dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
5. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all slices are soaked.
6. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
7. Remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden and set.
9. Serve warm, topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
10. Enjoy your delicious baked French toast!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option. Almond milk or oat milk can replace dairy milk for a dairy-free version. Additionally, you can use honey or agave syrup instead of granulated sugar to suit your taste.

Serving and Pairings

Baked French toast pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty breakfast. A fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream can enhance the sweetness, making it a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover baked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just reheat from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

Cooking Mistakes

– Over-soaking the bread can lead to a soggy texture.
– Not using enough eggs can result in a less custardy consistency.
– Forgetting to grease the baking dish may cause sticking.
– Baking at too high a temperature can burn the top while leaving the inside undercooked.
– Skipping the refrigeration step can affect flavor and texture.
– Using stale bread might not yield the best results.
– Not measuring ingredients accurately can throw off the balance.

Helpful Tips

– Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
– Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
– Experiment with different toppings like nuts or chocolate chips.
– Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to set the custard.

FAQs

Can I make baked French toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld and makes morning prep easier.

What type of bread works best for baked French toast?

Brioche and challah are ideal due to their texture and ability to absorb the custard well, but you can use any bread you prefer.

Can I freeze baked French toast?

Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

How do I know when baked French toast is done?

It should be golden brown on top and set in the middle. A knife inserted should come out clean.

Can I customize the toppings?

Certainly! Fresh fruits, nuts, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance your baked French toast.

Conclusion

Baked French toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to your mornings. With its simple preparation and delicious flavor, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and share the love!