Baked French Toast Recipe

French bread: A loaf of sliced French bread is the base of this recipe, providing a sturdy yet soft texture that absorbs the egg mixture well.

Eggs: Large eggs are used to create the custard mixture that soaks into the bread, giving it a rich and creamy texture.

Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps to create a smooth custard mixture.

Sugar: Sugar adds sweetness to the dish, balancing the flavors of the other ingredients.

Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a warm and aromatic note.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a hint of spice and warmth, complementing the sweetness of the dish.

Salt: A small amount of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

For an extra layer of flavor, try using day-old bread for this baked french toast. The slightly stale texture will absorb the egg mixture more effectively, resulting in a richer and more custard-like consistency. Additionally, consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of maple syrup to the egg mixture for a subtle yet delightful twist.

• sliced french bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and buttery, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.

• sliced french bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is slightly sweet and soft, making it an excellent alternative for a rich and tender baked French toast.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• large eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Use ¼ cup of blended silken tofu per egg. This provides a similar texture and moisture content.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baked dishes.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture and a slight coconut flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and a slightly floral flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract provides a unique and rich flavor that pairs well with French toast.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices, adding a complex flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a slightly different mineral content and can enhance the overall flavor.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger grains and a cleaner taste, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the baked French toast to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation and sogginess when stored.
• For short-term storage, transfer the French toast to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing. Cut the baked French toast into individual servings. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
• Wrap each serving tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For added protection, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the French toast in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This ensures even reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave for a quicker option, heating in 30-second intervals until hot.
• For a crispier texture, consider reheating in a toaster oven or on a stovetop skillet with a bit of butter.

Enjoy your delicious baked French toast with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover baked French toast in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the baked French toast on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the baked French toast slices in the skillet.
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked French toast slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the edges.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked French toast on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed and the top is slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the French toast at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking dish: Holds the sliced French bread and egg mixture while baking.

• Butter or non-stick spray: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.

• Whisk: Helps to thoroughly combine the ingredients in the mixing bowl.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the milk and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt accurately.

• Knife: Used to slice the French bread if it is not pre-sliced.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to slice the French bread on.

• Oven mitts: Protects your hands when placing the baking dish in and out of the oven.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-sliced bread: Opt for pre-sliced french bread to eliminate the need for cutting and ensure even soaking.

Soak overnight: Arrange the bread in the baking dish and pour the egg mixture over it the night before. Cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.

Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you start assembling to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time you're ready to bake.