This Cinnamon Baked French Toast is a delightful dessert or brunch dish that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the rich, custardy goodness of French toast. The topping adds a crunchy texture, perfectly complementing the soft bread beneath. Served with warm maple syrup, it’s a comforting and indulgent way to end your meal.
Perfect for special occasions or a cozy evening, this dish can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient yet impressive option for entertaining guests or treating your family to a comforting, homemade dessert. The fragrant aroma of cinnamon and baked bread will fill your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table for a memorable and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf crusty sourdough or French bread
- Butter, for greasing
- 8 whole eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- 1 stick cold butter, cut into pieces
- Warm maple syrup, for serving
Directions:
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter. Tear the bread into chunks or cut it into cubes and evenly distribute in the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla. Pour evenly over the bread. Cover the pan tightly and store in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
- For the topping: Mix the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and some nutmeg in a separate bowl. Add the butter and with a pastry cutter, mix it all together until the mixture resembles fine pebbles. Store in a resealable plastic bag in the fridge.
- When you’re ready to bake the casserole, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and sprinkle the topping over the top. Bake for 45 minutes for a softer, bread pudding-like texture or for 1 hour for a firmer, crisper texture.
- Scoop out individual portions and drizzle with warm maple syrup.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes | Total Time: 60-75 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
FAQs about Cinnamon Baked French Toast
- Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread, such as brioche, challah, or even a sturdy whole grain bread. In fact, each type of bread will offer a distinct flavor and texture, which can enhance the overall dish. - Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for overnight preparation. Therefore, simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Consequently, it will be ready to bake the next morning, making your meal preparation more efficient. - Can I use a non-dairy milk alternative?
Yes, you can substitute with almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk. By doing so, you can accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences without compromising on taste. - What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream. As a result, you can still achieve a rich and creamy texture, ensuring the dish remains satisfying. - How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the dessert while adhering to a gluten-free diet. - Can I add fruits or nuts to this recipe?
Yes, you can add fruits like berries or sliced bananas and nuts such as pecans or walnuts. Whether mixed into the batter or used as a topping, these additions can further enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. - What if I don’t have a pastry cutter for the topping?
If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use two forks or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mixture. Consequently, the mixture will resemble coarse crumbs, which is ideal for the topping. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving, ensuring they remain delicious and fresh. - Can I freeze this French toast bake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Subsequently, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results. - Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar?
Using both granulated and brown sugar creates a well-balanced flavor. However, if preferred, you can use only one type of sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your taste, and the dish will still be delightful.