Oven-baked French toast is a delicious, easy-to-make breakfast dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Unlike traditional French toast, which requires flipping individual slices in a skillet, this recipe allows you to bake multiple slices at once, saving time and effort. The result is a golden, slightly crispy exterior with a soft, custardy interior, infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors. This dish is great for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you want a comforting breakfast with minimal effort. Serve it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf of French bread, brioche, or challah, sliced (about 1-inch thick)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for a richer taste)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Whipped cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Arrange the slices of bread in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. You can slightly overlap them if needed.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure each slice absorbs some of the liquid. Use a spoon to gently press the bread down if necessary.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Drizzle this mixture over the soaked bread slices.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch (optional).
Step 5: Bake the French Toast
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream.
Serving Size & Calories
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-450 calories, depending on toppings and type of bread used.
Tips & Variations
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the French toast the night before, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy, and replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based alternative.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of orange zest or a tablespoon of maple syrup to the custard for extra flavor.
- Crispier Texture: For a crunchier texture, bake for an extra 5-10 minutes or place under the broiler for 2 minutes at the end.
- Individual Servings: Instead of a large casserole, bake the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet for individual portions.
Conclusion
This oven-baked French toast is the perfect way to enjoy a classic breakfast with a stress-free approach. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying start to your day. Try it with your favorite toppings and enjoy every bite! 🍞🥞✨