Decadent French Toast Bake to Impress Your Brunch Crew
This French Toast Bake transforms breakfast into a delightful occasion, perfect for impressing your brunch crew.
Equipment
- 9x13 casserole dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter or fork
Ingredients
For the Bake
- 1 loaf French bread or sourdough bread Day-old loaf for optimal texture
- 6 large eggs Fresh for best taste
- 2 cups liquid whipping cream or half and half cream Milk can be a lighter substitute
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar Coconut sugar for a healthier twist
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon Essential for cozy flavor
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds depth and sweetness
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup cold butter Unsalted for better control
- 1/4 cup brown sugar Enhances topping’s sweetness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Whole wheat flour can be used
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth to topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by cutting the loaf of French or sourdough bread into 1 to 2-inch pieces. Spray a 9"x13" casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs until blended. Add in the whipping cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing gently until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture into the casserole dish, then add the bread chunks. Spread them evenly, gently pressing the bread down to soak up the liquid.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight for best results.
- When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, stir together brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the topping. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the cold butter pieces to the dry mixture. Crumble the butter into pea-sized pieces for topping.
- Once removed from the fridge, sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Notes
Optional: Serve with fresh fruit or maple syrup for added sweetness.