Save to Pinterest 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 favorite in our home for leisurely weekend breakfasts that bring everyone together.
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.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings joy to our table and makes weekend mornings feel special.
Notes
Try adding diced apples or pears between bread layers for extra flavor For a vegan version use plant milk egg replacer and vegan bread.
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.
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This casserole is simple to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones any morning.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of bread works best?
Day-old brioche or challah with thick slices absorb the custard well and provide a tender, rich texture.
- → Can spices be adjusted?
Yes, the blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom can be customized based on taste preferences.
- → How long to soak before baking?
Chilling the dish for at least 30 minutes helps the bread fully absorb the custard for a custardy interior.
- → What toppings complement this dish?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries add sweetness and freshness to balance the warm spices.
- → Are there dairy-free options?
Substitute plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan bread to create a dairy-free, vegan-friendly version.