French Toast Bake

Looking for a delicious and easy breakfast or brunch recipe? This French Toast Bake is a perfect make-ahead dish, featuring rich custard-soaked sourdough bread topped with a cinnamon crumble. Ideal for holiday mornings, family gatherings, or weekend brunch, this comforting breakfast recipe can be prepared the night before for effortless morning enjoyment. It’s customizable with different bread options like brioche or challah, and can be made dairy-free with simple substitutions. Learn how to make this crowd-pleasing French toast casserole with just a few ingredients and impress your guests with this simple yet indulgent dish. French Toast Bake recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for easy, tasty, and satisfying breakfast ideas.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf sourdough bread, cubed
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup cold butter, cut into small cubes

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the sourdough bread into cubes and place them in a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
4. Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt for the topping. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Store the topping in an airtight container or a ziplock bag and refrigerate overnight.
6. When ready to bake, remove both the casserole dish and topping from the fridge. Evenly sprinkle the topping over the bread mixture.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Tips

• For extra richness, use whole milk and a bit more heavy cream.
• Let the French toast bake rest for 5-10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
• If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Bread: Swap the sourdough for challah, brioche, or any other thick bread of your choice.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of cow’s milk, and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream.
• Topping: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch in the topping.
• Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or a pinch of cloves for extra flavor in the egg mixture.

FAQs

Can I make this French toast bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and bake the next morning. This gives the bread ample time to soak in the custard mixture.

Can I freeze the French toast bake?
Yes, after baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.

Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread can work wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the custard.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a burst of freshness.
• Drizzle with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
• Pair with a side of bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast or brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French toast bake is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. The rich custard soaks into the bread, creating a deliciously soft and slightly crispy dish. With a sweet and cinnamony topping, it’s a comforting and satisfying treat that’s perfect for holiday mornings or a cozy weekend brunch. Plus, the easy prep and overnight refrigeration make it incredibly convenient!