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

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

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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.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

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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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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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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.