French Toast Bake

Name: French Toast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (cubed); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries); Powdered sugar for dusting

Start your day with a warm, comforting French Toast Bake that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy family breakfast, this dish features fluffy bread soaked in a rich custard, topped with fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty meal that will impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cubed
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries)
Powdered sugar for dusting

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/8 of the dish) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cube the brioche or challah and place it in the baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
Gently press the bread down to soak in the mixture.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool slightly before serving, dust with powdered sugar, and top with fresh berries.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute brioche with whole wheat bread or gluten-free bread for a healthier option. Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk for a dairy-free version. Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.

Serving and Pairings

Serve French Toast Bake with a side of maple syrup, whipped cream, or yogurt. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Not letting the bread soak long enough can result in a dry bake.
Using stale bread may lead to an undesirable texture.
Overbaking can cause the edges to harden.
Not preheating the oven can affect cooking time.
Skipping the resting period may lead to uneven cooking.

Helpful Tips

Use day-old bread for better absorption of the custard.
Add a splash of orange juice for a citrusy flavor.
Top with nuts before baking for added crunch.
Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger.

FAQs

Can I prepare French Toast Bake the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the bread to soak up the custard overnight for enhanced flavor.

What type of bread works best?

Brioche or challah is ideal due to its softness and ability to absorb the custard. However, you can use any bread you prefer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the bread with a gluten-free variety, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are in an airtight container.

Can I freeze French Toast Bake?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. For best results, thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

French Toast Bake is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. Enjoy this dish with your favorite toppings and create lasting memories around the breakfast table!