Golden, buttery, and bubbling with sweet custard—French Toast Bake is the ultimate comfort breakfast that brings cozy weekend brunch vibes right to your kitchen table. Picture thick cubes of bread, soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, baked until puffed and golden, and then dusted with powdered sugar for that irresistible touch. The edges are perfectly crispy, while the inside remains soft and creamy—almost like bread pudding’s more cheerful cousin.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast, planning a laid-back brunch, or simply want to treat your family to something special, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time. The best part? It can be made ahead the night before and baked fresh in the morning, making it a stress-free yet showstopping addition to your breakfast or brunch menu.
Ingredients for French Toast Bake
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old works best)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup or caramel sauce (optional, for serving)
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by cutting a loaf of French bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is slightly stale, even better—it’ll soak up the custard like a dream without turning mushy. Place the bread cubes evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them so they sit snugly but not too tightly packed.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined—this will be the rich custard base that gives the bake its classic flavor and creamy texture.
Step 3: Pour and Soak
Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish, ensuring every piece gets coated. Press down lightly with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the bread fully soak.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats up. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a little jiggle is okay).
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust generously with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm. Each bite delivers that ideal mix of crisp top and custardy interior.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), French Toast Bake stores beautifully. Once cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, simply pop individual servings into the microwave for about 30–45 seconds, or reheat larger portions in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugars: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
- Sodium: 190mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on bread type and toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of bread?
Yes! Brioche, challah, or even sourdough are great choices. The key is to use sturdy bread that holds its shape.
2. Can this be made gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free loaf—it works just as well.
3. How far in advance can I make it?
You can assemble the night before and bake in the morning—up to 12 hours ahead is perfect.
4. What if I forgot to soak it overnight?
No worries. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, pressing down the bread to help it absorb quickly. Then bake as directed.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute plant-based milk and cream (like almond or oat) and use dairy-free butter.
6. Why is my bake soggy in the middle?
It might be underbaked. Cover loosely with foil and bake an extra 10–15 minutes until set.
7. Can I add fruit or nuts?
Definitely! Blueberries, bananas, or chopped pecans make delicious mix-ins or toppings.
8. Is it sweet enough on its own?
It’s mildly sweet. You can adjust the sugar or add syrup, fruit, or whipped cream when serving.
French Toast Bake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Soak time:: 4+ hours or overnight
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minute
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
Description
Wake up to the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and vanilla with this irresistible French Toast Bake. This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into a golden, custard-soaked masterpiece that’s crispy on top and soft in the center. Perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or holiday brunches, it’s one of those quick breakfast or brunch ideas that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner-style breakfast options or sweet food ideas for guests, this dish brings joy to any table with minimal effort. From cozy weekday treats to impressive make-ahead breakfast bakes, this French Toast Bake ticks all the boxes.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Powdered sugar, for dusting
Maple syrup or caramel sauce, optional
Instructions
- Cut French bread into 1-inch cubes and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour custard mixture over bread, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish come to room temperature.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, until golden and set.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with syrup or caramel.