Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (16 oz) French bread or brioche, cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, for drizzling
- Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, vanilla bean seeds (or paste), ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are well coated.
- Gently press down the bread cubes to ensure they absorb the custard. For best results, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
Step 5: Bake
- Before baking, drizzle the melted butter over the top of the soaked bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 6: Serve
- Allow the French toast bake to cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup on the side.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 45