Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast

Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast: A Breakfast Symphony of Flavor

Wake up to the delightful aroma of our Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast—a breakfast creation that marries the classic appeal of French toast with the convenience of a casserole. This recipe transforms a simple morning ritual into a symphony of flavors, with layers of soft bread, a hint of cinnamon, and a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or craving a cozy weekend breakfast, this dish is designed to make mornings memorable. Join us as we guide you through the steps of creating this delectable breakfast casserole that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

Gather these kitchen staples to embark on a journey of flavor with Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast:

For the French Toast:

  • 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Streusel Topping:

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

For Serving:

  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the French Toast Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.
  2. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Arrange the French bread cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
    • Press down on the bread gently to help it absorb the liquid.
  3. Chill Overnight:
    • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the French toast overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the flavors and results in a more custard-like texture.
  4. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
    • In a bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt for the streusel topping.
    • Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly. Set aside.
  5. Bake to Golden Perfection:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
    • Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
  6. Serve with Style:
    • Allow the baked French toast to cool for a few minutes before slicing.
    • Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries if desired.

Cook Notes:

  • Bread Selection: Opt for day-old French bread or a sturdy bread like brioche for the best texture.
  • Customization: Experiment with different bread types or add a layer of cream cheese or fruit between the bread cubes for added indulgence.
  • Make-Ahead Convenience: The overnight chilling allows for easy morning preparation. Just pop it in the oven, and breakfast is served.

Variations:

Apple Cinnamon Twist: Layer sliced apples between the bread cubes for an apple-cinnamon infusion.

Pumpkin Spice Delight: Add a seasonal twist by incorporating pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the egg mixture.

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the streusel topping for a delightful crunch.

Keto Version:

For a keto-friendly adaptation, replace the bread with a low-carb alternative like almond flour bread or coconut flour bread. Substitute sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener and use unsweetened almond milk instead of whole milk.

Low-Carb Version:

Craft a low-carb alternative by using a low-carb bread option and a sugar substitute in both the French toast mixture and streusel topping. Adjust the milk choice to a lower-carb option like unsweetened almond milk.

Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast is not just a breakfast; it’s a celebration of simplicity, indulgence, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. From the luscious custard-soaked bread to the golden streusel topping, each bite is a reminder that breakfast can be a moment of sheer delight. So, let the oven work its magic, fill your home with the scent of cinnamon, and bring a touch of morning bliss to your table. Easy Cinnamon Baked French Toast—a breakfast symphony that turns the ordinary into the extraordinary, and a recipe that invites you to savor the start of each day with warmth and flavor.