The Ultimate Guide to the Best Baked French Toast Recipe: A Deliciously Easy Breakfast Delight

#### Best Baked French Toast RecipeIf you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both easy to prepare and utterly delicious, the **best baked French toast recipe……

#### Best Baked French Toast Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both easy to prepare and utterly delicious, the **best baked French toast recipe** is your answer. This dish combines the comforting flavors of traditional French toast with the convenience of baking, making it perfect for busy mornings or special occasions.

#### What Makes This Recipe the Best?

The **best baked French toast recipe** stands out due to its simplicity and the ability to prepare it ahead of time. Imagine waking up to a warm, sweet, and fragrant breakfast that’s ready to serve. This recipe allows you to soak the bread overnight in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices, ensuring that every bite is flavorful and custardy.

#### Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the **best baked French toast recipe**, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 loaf of thick bread (like challah or brioche)

- 6 large eggs

- 2 cups of whole milk

- 1 cup of heavy cream (optional for extra richness)

- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

- A pinch of salt

- Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or whipped cream

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prepare the Bread**: Start by slicing your bread into thick pieces, ideally about 1 inch thick. Arrange the slices in a greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly.

2. **Make the Custard Mixture**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

3. **Soak the Bread**: Pour the custard mixture over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each piece is well-coated. For best results, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.

4. **Bake**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

5. **Serve**: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

#### Tips for the Best Results

- **Choosing the Right Bread**: The type of bread you use can significantly affect the outcome of your baked French toast. A rich, eggy bread like brioche or challah works best, as it absorbs the custard beautifully.

- **Customize Your Flavors**: Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins. Nutmeg, orange zest, or even chocolate chips can elevate your dish.

- **Make it Ahead**: This recipe can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Just prepare the dish the night before and bake it in the morning.

#### Conclusion

The **best baked French toast recipe** is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste. With its rich custard base and the ability to prepare it ahead of time, it’s a fantastic option for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy of sharing this delicious meal with family and friends!