Prep
10 min
Cook
30 min
Total
8 hr 40 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Start by pouring melted butter into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Grease the sides of the dish with butter and let the remaining butter sit in the bottom of the dish.

  2. Evenly sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon over the melted butter in the dish.

  3. Arrange two layers of bread slices on top of the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.

  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and salt.

  5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices in the dish.

  6. Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.

  7. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

  8. Once the oven is preheated, remove the dish from the refrigerator and bake it in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

About this recipe

Who doesn't love waking up to the delicious aroma of French toast wafting through the house? The crispy edges, the fluffy interior, and the hint of vanilla make it the perfect breakfast treat. But have you ever tried making French toast in the oven? It's a game-changer! In this article, we'll explore the best way to make oven-baked French toast that will leave you wanting more.

Why Oven Baked French Toast?

Unlike traditional stovetop French toast, oven-baked French toast offers a number of advantages. Firstly, it's a time-saver. Instead of standing by the stove, flipping each slice of bread individually, you can simply assemble your French toast in a baking dish and let the oven do the work. This means more time to sip your coffee and less time spent in the kitchen.

Secondly, baking French toast in the oven allows for a more even and consistent cooking. Each slice of bread gets the same amount of heat, resulting in a perfectly golden and crispy exterior. No more burnt or undercooked slices!

How to Make Oven Baked French Toast

Now that we've convinced you of the wonders of oven-baked French toast, let's dive into the process. Here's a step-by-step guide to making the best oven-baked French toast:

Step 1Choose the Right Bread

The foundation of any good French toast is the bread. Opt for a thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah. These types of bread have a soft interior and a slightly sweet flavor, which pairs perfectly with the custardy mixture.

Step 2Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk (or cream), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This custard mixture is what gives French toast its signature flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to add an extra layer of warmth.

Step 3Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds, absorbing all the flavors.

Step 4Arrange in a Baking Dish

Place the soaked bread slices in a greased baking dish, making sure they are in a single layer. If desired, you can sprinkle some brown sugar or cinnamon on top for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.

Step 5Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the French toast for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's golden brown and crispy on the outside. The exact baking time may vary depending on the thickness of your bread, so keep an eye on it.

Once your French toast is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can top it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar to take it to the next level.

Conclusion

Oven-baked French toast is a breakfast dream come true. It offers all the flavors and textures you love in French toast, but with the added convenience and consistency of baking in the oven. So, the next time you're craving a delicious breakfast treat, give oven-baked French toast a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any type of bread for oven-baked French toast?

While you can use any bread you like, thick and sturdy bread like brioche or challah work best for oven-baked French toast.

Can I make oven-baked French toast ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the French toast the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

How do I prevent my oven-baked French toast from getting soggy?

Make sure to use thick slices of bread and let them soak in the custard mixture for just the right amount of time. This will help prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze oven-baked French toast?

Yes, you can freeze oven-baked French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven.

Can I add toppings to my oven-baked French toast?

Absolutely! You can top your oven-baked French toast with maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a dollop of Nutella. Get creative!

Can I make oven-baked French toast without eggs?

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can make oven-baked French toast without eggs. Substitute the eggs with a mixture of mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan-friendly version.

Can I use gluten-free bread for oven-baked French toast?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread for oven-baked French toast. Just make sure it's sturdy enough to hold up to the custard mixture.

Can I reheat oven-baked French toast?

Absolutely! If you have leftovers, you can reheat oven-baked French toast in the toaster or oven. Just be mindful not to overcook it, as it may become dry.

Can I use stale bread for oven-baked French toast?

Yes! In fact, using slightly stale bread is a great way to prevent your French toast from becoming too soggy. The drier bread will soak up the custard mixture better.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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