Looking for a delicious and hassle-free breakfast option? Our oven baked French toast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a mouthwatering breakfast that tastes like it was made by a professional chef. Say goodbye to standing over a hot stove and hello to a stress-free morning with this tried-and-true recipe. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving a special treat, this easy oven baked French toast will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Dive into this article to learn how to make this delectable dish and elevate your breakfast game.
Ingredients needed for the oven baked French toast:
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
Step-by-step instructions for preparing the French toast
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Place the slices of bread in the prepared baking dish, making sure they fit snugly in a single layer.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring that all the pieces are coated.
- Allow the bread to soak in the egg mixture for about 5 minutes, gently pressing down on the slices to ensure absorption.
- While the bread is soaking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the soaked bread slices, making sure to distribute it evenly.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar over the top of the bread, ensuring each slice is well coated.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown and set in the middle.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the oven-baked French toast warm, topped with maple syrup, fresh berries, or your desired toppings.
Tips and tricks for making the perfect oven baked French toast
Mastering the art of oven baked French toast can take your breakfast game to a whole new level. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect result every time:
1. Choose the right bread
The type of bread you use can make a huge difference in the final outcome of your oven baked French toast. Opt for a bread with a sturdy texture like brioche, challah, or French bread. These breads will hold up well and not turn mushy when soaked in the egg mixture.
2. Slice the bread thickly
Thicker slices of bread work best for oven baked French toast as they can absorb the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy. Aim for slices that are about 1 inch thick for the perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft interior.
3. Let the bread soak
Allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture is crucial for a flavorful and moist French toast. Make sure each side of the bread is fully submerged in the mixture for at least 10-15 seconds. This ensures that every bite is infused with the delicious custard-like flavors.
4. Use a wire rack
Placing the soaked bread slices on a wire rack before baking allows for even air circulation, resulting in a crispy and evenly cooked French toast. This also prevents the bottom of the toast from becoming too soggy.
5. Don’t overcrowd the baking dish
When arranging the soaked bread slices in the baking dish, make sure to leave some space between each slice. Overcrowding the dish can lead to uneven cooking and a mushy texture. If you have too many slices to fit in a single layer, consider using multiple baking dishes or baking in batches.
6. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar
For an extra touch of sweetness and flavor, sprinkle the soaked bread slices with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. This will create a delicious caramelized crust on top of the French toast.
7. Serve immediately
Oven baked French toast is best enjoyed straight out of the oven while it’s still warm and crispy. Serve it with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruits, or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy!
Serving suggestions and variations for the French toast recipe
Once you’ve mastered the art of making oven baked French toast, there are endless possibilities for serving and customizing this delicious dish. Here are a few serving suggestions and variations to try:
Serving suggestions:
- Maple syrup and fresh berries: Drizzle the French toast with a generous amount of maple syrup and top it off with a handful of fresh berries for a classic and refreshing twist.
- Whipped cream and chocolate sauce: For a decadent treat, serve the French toast with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Powdered sugar and cinnamon: Dust the French toast with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a simple yet flavorful presentation. This combination adds a warm and comforting touch.
Variations:
- Brioche French toast: Use brioche bread instead of the traditional white bread for an even richer and buttery flavor. Brioche French toast is a luxurious twist on the classic recipe.
- Stuffed French toast: Take your French toast to the next level by adding a filling. Some popular options include cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves. Simply spread the filling between two slices of bread before dipping it into the custard mixture.
- Savory French toast: If you prefer a savory breakfast, try adding herbs and spices to the custard mixture, such as garlic powder, thyme, or paprika. Serve the French toast with bacon, avocado, or a side of sautéed mushrooms.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different toppings, fillings, and flavor combinations. The beauty of oven baked French toast is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Overall, this oven baked French toast recipe is a reliable and delicious option for breakfast or brunch. By using the oven instead of a stovetop, the French toast becomes evenly cooked and retains its moisture. The combination of cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup gives it a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply want to treat yourself to a special breakfast, this tried-and-true recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful and hassle-free French toast experience!