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 has become a family favorite for cozy weekend mornings. It fills the home with inviting aromas and makes everyone feel at ease.

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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This dish often brings everyone to the table eagerly on slow Sunday mornings, creating cherished family moments.

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 per serving

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This baked French toast casserole is the perfect combination of flavor and ease for any occasion.

Recipe FAQ

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Day-old brioche or challah bread sliced thickly is ideal to absorb the custard while maintaining structure during baking.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, after assembling, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the custard to soak deeply before baking.

→ What spices are used to flavor this dish?

This dish is gently spiced with cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and a touch of cardamom for warmth and complexity.

→ Are there optional toppings to enhance the flavor?

Butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon topping adds a caramelized touch. Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries are great garnishes.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk, use egg replacers, and select vegan bread varieties to make a plant-based version.

→ How long should it bake?

Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.