Can I use just milk instead of milk and heavy cream for baked French toast?

Using only milk for baked French toast tends to result in a thinner custard, which can make the dish less rich and creamy. The combination of milk and heavy cream creates a thicker, more luscious custard that soaks into the bread better. If you prefer, half-and-half can replace the mix of milk and cream for a slightly lighter texture while still maintaining richness.

What type of bread is best for making baked French toast?

For baked French toast, crusty breads like sourdough or French bread work best. Day-old or slightly stale bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard without falling apart, helping to avoid sogginess. Avoid using very soft breads like regular white sandwich bread, as they may not hold up during soaking and baking.

How can I prevent my baked French toast casserole from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, use sturdy, crusty bread that has had time to dry out slightly. Also, avoid over-soaking the bread in the custard mixture. Baking uncovered allows moisture to evaporate and helps the top become crisp. If your casserole is still soggy, try baking it a bit longer at a moderate temperature to help it set firmly.

Can I prepare baked French toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble baked French toast the night before and keep it refrigerated overnight. This allows the custard to fully soak into the bread, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. When ready to eat, simply bake it until golden and cooked through, usually about 45-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

How should I store and reheat leftover baked French toast?

Store leftover baked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will keep for up to three days. To reheat, place portions in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven uncovered for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze fully baked and cooled French toast, wrapped tightly, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Baked French Toast Recipes For Easy Flavorful Breakfasts

Name: Baked French Toast
Prep time: PT-491999H18M39S
Cook time: PT-491999H3M39S
Total time: PT-491999H3M39S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – 1 loaf crusty sourdough or French bread torn into chunks or cubes; – 8 eggs; – 2 cups whole milk; – 1/2 cup heavy cream; – 1/2 cup granulated sugar; – 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed; – 2 tablespoons vanilla extract; – Salted butter for greasing the 13-by-9-inch baking pan; – 1/2 cup flour; – 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed; – 1 teaspoon cinnamon; – 1/4 teaspoon salt; – Freshly grated nutmeg to taste; – 1/2 cup cold butter cut into pieces

Description

🍞 Experience the comfort of a warm, easy-to-make breakfast that pleases the whole family.
🍓 Baked French Toast offers delightful textures and flavors, perfect for busy mornings or special gatherings.

Ingredients

– 1 loaf crusty sourdough or French bread torn into chunks or cubes

– 8 eggs

– 2 cups whole milk

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed

– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract

– Salted butter for greasing the 13-by-9-inch baking pan

– 1/2 cup flour

– 1/2 cup brown sugar firmly packed

– 1 teaspoon cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– Freshly grated nutmeg to taste

– 1/2 cup cold butter cut into pieces

Instructions

1-Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Bread Start by greasing a 13-by-9-inch baking pan with salted butter to prevent sticking. Next, tear one loaf of crusty sourdough or French bread into chunks or cubes and spread them evenly in the pan. This step ensures the bread soaks up the custard nicely, creating that soft, flavorful base.

2-Step 2: Make the Custard In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread in the pan, making sure every piece gets coated. You can refrigerate the casserole overnight at this point for deeper flavor or bake it right away.

3-Step 3: Prepare the Topping Mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and optional freshly grated nutmeg in a bowl. Add 1/2 cup cold butter cut into pieces and mix until it resembles fine pebbles. Store this in the fridge until you’re ready to use it, which adds a nice crunch to the final dish.

4-Step 4: Bake the Casserole Before baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the topping evenly over the custard-soaked bread and bake uncovered for 45 minutes for a softer texture or up to 1 hour for a firmer, crispier result. Keep an eye on it to get the consistency you prefer.

5-Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, let it cool slightly, then serve portions topped with butter, warm syrup, and 1 cup of fresh blueberries for a burst of color and taste. Variations might include adding fruits like strawberries, blackberries, peaches, or apples directly into the mix for extra flair.

Notes

🍶 Use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream for extra richness in the custard.
🥖 Use stale, crusty bread to absorb the custard well without becoming soggy.
🔥 Bake uncovered to develop a crisp, delicious topping layer.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration Time (optional): 0 to 12 hours
Cook Time: 45 to 60 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 20 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 9 g
Cholesterol: 210 mg

Keywords: baked French toast, easy breakfast, flavorful breakfast, overnight French toast