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 dish has become a favorite in my family for its simplicity and delicious flavor that everyone loves.

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

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.

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Sharing this casserole always makes our family mornings so special and cozy together.

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.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350 Total Fat: 16 g Carbohydrates: 44 g Protein: 9 g

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This baked French toast casserole is a perfect make-ahead dish that always delights the whole family.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ What bread is best for this dish?

Brioche or challah bread, sliced thick and preferably day-old, work best to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, after assembling, refrigerate the casserole for at least 30 minutes or overnight to let the bread soak up the flavorful custard.

→ What spices are included in the custard?

The custard is infused with ground cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and a hint of cardamom to create warm and comforting flavors.

→ How can I add texture to the topping?

For a crunchy touch, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts over the cinnamon-butter sugar topping before baking.

→ Are there alternatives for milk and eggs?

Plant-based milks and egg replacers can be used for a vegan adaptation, substituting traditional dairy and eggs in the custard.