Traditional French Toast Bake is the perfect comfort dish for lazy Sunday mornings or festive brunch gatherings. Combining the rich flavors of brioche with a creamy custard, this dish takes classic French toast to a whole new level.
Brioche bread is the heart of this dish. Its buttery richness and soft texture soak up the custard beautifully, making for a tender yet sturdy bake. Eggs provide structure and richness, transforming the milk and cream into a luscious custard. The mix of whole milk and heavy cream creates a creamy base that clings to the bread. Granulated sugar and brown sugar add sweetness and a hint of caramel-like depth. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and a touch of spice. A bit of salt balances the sweetness, and unsalted butter gives the bake a delicious, golden finish.
Dust the bake lightly with powdered sugar before serving. A drizzle of real maple syrup will complement the rich flavors beautifully. Pair it with some fresh berries or a fruit salad to add a refreshing contrast. A side of crispy bacon or sausages would also balance the sweetness nicely.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bake will cook evenly right from the start. Grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a good grease with some butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking later when you're serving up slices.
Next, take your brioche bread and slice it into 1-inch cubes. Spread these evenly in the prepared baking dish. You want the bread to be in a single layer, but don't worry if some pieces overlap slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined, with no visible streaks of egg or clumps of sugar.
Pour this egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, ensuring every piece is soaked in the custard. This step is crucial for a uniform texture throughout the dish.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the dish. This will help give the bake a beautiful, golden-brown finish.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the custard is set and the top is nicely browned. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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