Cinnamon French Toast Bake

Bring the comfort of a classic breakfast dish to your table with this easy and delicious Cinnamon French Toast Bake. This recipe transforms simple French bread into a soft, custard-like delight, bursting with the flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and a sweet, buttery topping. Perfect for holiday breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or weekend treats, this bake is a crowd-pleaser that you can prepare ahead and bake fresh in the morning. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a warm, indulgent dish that makes mornings extra special.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of French bread (about 10-12 oz), cut into cubes
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for topping)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  1. Cut the loaf of French bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them evenly.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed bread in the baking dish, pressing down slightly so the bread absorbs the mixture.

Step 3: Add the Butter Topping

  1. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the soaked bread.

Step 4: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tbsp ground cinnamon.
  2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the bread to create a crunchy, sweet topping.

Step 5: Bake the French Toast

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this dish the night before?
A: Yes! Simply follow the steps up to soaking the bread in the egg mixture, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add the butter and cinnamon-sugar topping before baking.

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or even leftover rolls work well. Just keep the texture in mind – softer breads may soak up the egg mixture faster.

Q: How do I keep the French Toast Bake from becoming too soggy?
A: Use slightly stale or day-old bread if possible. This helps absorb the egg mixture without becoming overly soft.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cinnamon French Toast Bake

  1. Use Day-Old Bread: If you can, use bread that’s slightly dry, as it absorbs the egg mixture better and prevents a soggy texture.
  2. Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or sprinkle some fresh fruit, like berries, over the top before serving.
  3. Adjust Sweetness to Taste: If you prefer a less sweet bake, reduce the amount of sugar in the egg mixture or the topping.
  4. Don’t Over-Bake: Keep an eye on the oven toward the end of baking. You want a golden brown top and set center, but over-baking may make it dry.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 30-40 seconds or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Cut it into portions and wrap each tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Cinnamon French Toast Bake is a breakfast classic that brings warmth and comfort to your morning routine. With rich, custardy bread cubes topped with a crispy cinnamon-sugar crust, each bite is filled with soft texture and delicious flavor. The melted butter topping creates a slightly caramelized layer that makes this dish indulgent and special, ideal for holiday mornings or gatherings where you want something impressive yet easy to prepare.

What makes this recipe truly delightful is its simplicity. With basic pantry ingredients like bread, eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, you can create a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. It’s an excellent option for feeding a group, as you can easily double or triple the recipe if needed. And if you’re looking to simplify your morning, prepare everything the night before and simply bake it fresh when you’re ready.

Versatile and family-friendly, this French toast bake can be tailored to your tastes. Try adding nuts, fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor. The slightly crispy top and tender, flavorful center create the perfect balance, making this a satisfying breakfast or brunch option. The best part? It’s a one-dish recipe that requires minimal cleanup, allowing you to enjoy a warm, delicious breakfast without the hassle.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a special treat for yourself, this Cinnamon French Toast Bake is a must-try. It’s a comforting, delicious start to any day, bringing classic flavors with a twist that makes it stand out. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dish – it’s bound to become a new favorite!