Soft Spice Baked French Toast

A comforting, custardy baked French toast infused with warm spices, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend breakfast treat.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite because it combines simplicity with delicious taste and comforting texture.

Ingredients

• Bread: 1 loaf (about 450 g) brioche or challah, day-old, sliced thick
• Custard: 4 large eggs, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/3 cup (65 g) light brown sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground cardamom, Pinch of salt
• Topping: 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Optional Garnishes: Maple syrup, Powdered sugar, Fresh berries

Instructions

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

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Step 1:

Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2:

Arrange the bread slices in the dish, overlapping slightly.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt until smooth.

Step 4:

Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread down to help it soak up the mixture.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Drizzle evenly over the casserole.

Step 6:

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Step 7:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 8:

Uncover and bake for 40 45 minutes, until golden brown and just set in the center.

Step 9:

Let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries as desired.

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

Check price on Amazon

Mount paper towels nearby for quick cleanup of spills, grease, and messes while cooking and prepping meals.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe has brought us closer around the breakfast table, creating warm memories with every bite.

Notes

Try adding diced apples or pears between bread layers for extra flavor. For a vegan version, use plant milk, egg replacer, and vegan bread.

Required Tools

9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Small bowl, Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs, Milk (Dairy), Wheat (Gluten). May contain Tree nuts if added as variation. Always check bread and ingredient labels for allergens.

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Organize cleaning supplies and kitchen essentials under the sink for quicker access during cooking and cleanup.

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This Soft Spice Baked French Toast Casserole is perfect for sharing and savoring on cozy mornings.

Your Questions Answered

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Day-old brioche or challah sliced thick provides the best texture and absorbs the custard well.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, letting it soak covered in the fridge overnight enhances flavor and creates a custardy texture.

→ Which spices are included in the custard mixture?

Ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom warm the custard with a comforting spice blend.

→ Are there any suggested toppings?

The casserole is topped with a cinnamon-brown sugar butter drizzle, served with optional maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

→ Can this dish accommodate dietary substitutions?

Yes, plant-based milk and egg replacers can be used for vegan adaptations, and nuts may be added for extra texture.