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.

I have always enjoyed making this casserole for my family on weekends as it brings everyone together for a cozy breakfast.

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

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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.

Blend smoothies, sauces, and shakes quickly for easy breakfasts, snacks, and meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

Blend smoothies, sauces, and shakes quickly for easy breakfasts, snacks, and meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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Making this casserole has become a cherished family tradition that often sparks delightful conversations around the breakfast table.

Notes

For a nutty twist add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping. Substitute half-and-half for the milk and cream mixture if preferred. 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 baked French toast casserole is the perfect balance of sweet and spice and is sure to become a family favorite in your home.

Recipe FAQs

→ What bread works best for this dish?

Day-old brioche or challah sliced thick creates the perfect base, absorbing custard well while maintaining structure.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the custard to soak into the bread deeply.

→ What spices are used to flavor the custard?

The custard includes cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and a hint of cardamom for warm, aromatic notes.

→ Are there ways to add texture to this dish?

Chopped pecans or walnuts can be mixed into the topping for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

→ How should it be served for best taste?

Serve warm and optionally garnish with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries to complement the spices.

→ Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?

Yes, substitute plant-based milk and egg replacer, and use vegan bread to accommodate dietary preferences.