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.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite for weekend brunches and cozy weeknight dinners.

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

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

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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.

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

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Making this together is a cherished weekend tradition that brings everyone to the table and fills the kitchen with comforting aromas.

Variations

Try adding chopped nuts to the topping or layering diced apples between the bread slices for extra texture and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently to preserve moisture and flavor.

Allergens

Contains eggs, dairy, and wheat. May include nuts if added as a variation; always check ingredient labels.

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Slow cook soups, stews, roasts, and casseroles effortlessly for comforting meals with rich, developed flavors.

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This dish offers a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Questions & Answers

→ What bread works best for this dish?

Day-old brioche or challah slices are ideal for absorbing the custard while maintaining a tender yet sturdy texture after baking.

→ How do the spices enhance the flavor?

Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom blend to create a warm, comforting aroma and taste that complement the creamy custard base.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, after assembling, refrigerate the dish for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the bread to soak evenly and deepen the flavors.

→ What are some suggested toppings?

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries add natural sweetness and brightness, balancing the rich custard and spices.

→ Are there vegan alternatives for the ingredients?

To make a vegan version, substitute plant-based milk, an egg replacer, and vegan bread while keeping the spice blend the same.