Looking for a simple way to kickstart your mornings? This Easy Baked French Toast recipe is both quick and delicious! With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a breakfast that’s sure to impress. I’ll guide you through each step, so you’ll enjoy every bite without any fuss. Get ready to transform your breakfast routine into something special that your whole family will love!
Ingredients
Making Easy Baked French Toast is simple. Here’s what you need:
– 6 slices of thick bread (like challah or brioche)
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh berries (for topping)
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
These ingredients work together to create a soft, sweet dish. The thick bread soaks up the mixture well. The eggs and dairy make it rich and creamy. Maple syrup gives it a warm sweetness, while vanilla and cinnamon add flavor. Fresh berries and powdered sugar make the dish look and taste even better. For the full recipe, refer to the section above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Take 6 slices of thick bread, like challah or brioche, and arrange them in the baking dish. Slightly overlap them for a nice look.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
4. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the bread slices. Make sure each slice is soaked well.
Baking Process
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. You can even leave it overnight for better flavor.
6. Once ready to bake, take the dish out of the fridge and uncover it. If you like, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. It should puff up and turn golden brown.
8. While it bakes, prepare your berry topping. Mix fresh berries in a bowl. You can toss them with a little maple syrup if you want.
9. After baking, let the dish cool for a couple of minutes. Serve it warm, topped with your fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
For the full recipe, please refer to the earlier section.
Tips & Tricks
Essential Tips for Best Results
To make your baked French toast great, use day-old bread. Fresh bread can get too soggy. Day-old bread holds its shape and has a nice texture. Bread like challah or brioche works best.
Soak the bread overnight for the best flavor. The egg mixture needs time to soak in. This extra time helps the bread absorb the flavors. You will get a creamier and richer taste. If you’re short on time, soak it for at least 30 minutes.
Presentation Ideas
Serve your baked French toast right from the baking dish. It looks lovely and saves on dishes. For a special touch, garnish with fresh berries. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add color and flavor.
A drizzle of maple syrup on top adds sweetness. You can also dust with powdered sugar for a pretty finish. These simple steps make your dish look and taste fantastic.
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change up your baked French toast in fun ways. Try using cinnamon raisin bread for a sweet twist. The spices in the bread add flavor without extra work. You can also mix in chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Nuts give a nice crunch, while chocolate chips melt and become gooey. Both options make your dish unique and tasty.
Dietary Considerations
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread. It works just as well and keeps the dish delicious. For those who follow a vegan diet, you can swap the eggs and milk with plant-based alternatives. Try using flax eggs or silken tofu for eggs. Non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk works great too. These swaps make it easier for everyone to enjoy a slice of this tasty treat.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your baked French toast fresh, you should store it in the fridge. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container. It will last up to three days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This helps to avoid freezer burn. Baked French toast can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is easy. For the best results, use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place a piece on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds. Check to see if it’s warm. If not, heat it for another 15 seconds. Enjoy your warm, tasty baked French toast!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked French toast the night before. After pouring the egg mixture over the bread, cover it with plastic wrap. Let it chill in the fridge overnight. This soaking time helps the bread absorb flavors well. In the morning, just bake it as directed.
What type of bread is best for baked French toast?
Thick bread works best. I recommend using challah or brioche. Their texture is soft and rich, which makes the dish tender. You can also try day-old bread for a different taste.
Can I substitute dairy ingredients for non-dairy options?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. For the heavy cream, coconut cream is a great choice. Just make sure to pick unsweetened options for a balanced flavor. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty meal.
For the full recipe, check out the details above.
This blog post covered a tasty baked French toast recipe. We explored key ingredients like bread, eggs, and spices. I shared easy steps for preparation and baking. You can enhance your dish with tips for flavor and presentation. We discussed options for different diets, storage methods, and reheating tips.
Baked French toast is a fun, flexible dish. Try adding your favorite flavors or toppings. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to make it your own!
