French Toast Bake Recipe : A Delicious Make-Ahead Breakfast

Looking for an easy and delicious breakfast recipe that you can prep in advance? This French toast bake is exactly what you need! With minimal effort, you can create a comforting, warm dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, brunches, or even holiday mornings. Unlike traditional French toast, this recipe allows you to bake everything in one dish, saving you time while feeding a crowd.

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. If you’re seeking other make-ahead breakfast ideas, take a look at this baked donuts recipe. And for those craving something savory, try the flavorful air fryer onion rings to complement your breakfast table.

Ingredients for French Toast Bake

For the French Toast Base:

• 1 loaf of French bread, brioche, or sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Maple syrup
• Fresh fruit (berries or bananas)
• Whipped cream

How to Make French Toast Bake

1. Prepare the Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cut the Bread: Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and scatter them evenly in the dish.
3. Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing the bread gently into the custard to ensure it’s soaked.
5. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for a make-ahead breakfast.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the French toast for 45-60 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. If needed, cover the dish with foil during the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Make it Ahead for Busy Mornings

One of the best parts of this French toast bake is that you can prepare it the night before, making your mornings hassle-free. Refrigerating the dish overnight allows the bread to absorb the rich custard, giving you a creamy, flavorful result. When you’re ready, simply bake it and serve with your favorite toppings. For another easy breakfast option, try this southern fried chicken alongside your French toast for a hearty meal.

Cinnamon Streusel Topping for Extra Crunch

To elevate your French toast bake, add a cinnamon streusel topping for added texture and flavor.

Streusel Ingredients:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup cold butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the streusel over the French toast before baking.

Creative Variations for French Toast Bake

Here are a few ways to customize your French toast bake:

• Cream Cheese and Berry French Toast Bake: Add dollops of cream cheese and fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries between the bread cubes.
• Nutty Pecan French Toast Bake: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a nutty crunch. You can drizzle with caramel for an even richer flavor.
• Savory French Toast Bake: Skip the sugar and add shredded cheese, bacon, or sausage for a savory twist.

Serving Suggestions for French Toast Bake

Once baked, allow the French toast to cool slightly before serving. Here are some great toppings and sides:

• Maple Syrup: A classic sweet topping.
• Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a pop of color and freshness with berries, bananas, or sliced apples.
• Whipped Cream: For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream.

How to Store and Freeze French Toast Bake

• Storing: Cover leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bake before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of bread for French toast bake?

Yes, you can use brioche, sourdough, or even stale bread. Slightly stale bread helps prevent the bake from becoming too soggy.

How long can I refrigerate the French toast bake before baking?

You can refrigerate it overnight or up to 24 hours, making it a great make-ahead breakfast.

Can I freeze French toast bake?

Yes, French toast bake can be frozen. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped to avoid freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake before serving.

How do I prevent my French toast bake from becoming soggy?

Make sure the bread absorbs the custard evenly, but don’t oversoak it. Using slightly stale bread helps prevent sogginess.

Can I make a dairy-free version of French toast bake?

Absolutely! Substitute the milk and cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free alternative.

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This easy French toast bake recipe is versatile, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Whether you keep it classic with cinnamon or add exciting flavors like berries and cream cheese, this bake will become a favorite in your kitchen!

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