Blest French Toast
Creamy, flavorful French toast baked with cream cheese and cinnamon, perfect for brunch or special mornings, and customizable with fruits or nuts for added texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together beaten eggs, milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan with Pam or non-stick spray.
- Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared pan.
- Spread all of the cream cheese cubes evenly over the bread layer.
- Add the remaining bread cubes on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Pour the egg mixture over the layered bread and cream cheese.
- Refrigerate the assembled dish overnight to absorb flavors.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes until golden and set.
- Let cool slightly before sprinkling with powdered sugar.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and butter, optionally adding apples, raisins, or coconut.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also add vanilla extract to the egg mixture for extra depth. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. Be sure to let the dish sit overnight to allow the flavors to meld properly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French toast warm, sprinkled with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas. For added indulgence, serve alongside butter or whipped cream. You can also complement the meal with a side of Carrot Salad(Can Be Made A Day Ahead) for a refreshing crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. This will help to revive the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blest French Toast contains roughly 742 calories, with 11g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 649mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe works best with white bread, you can experiment with whole grain, gluten-free, or even flavored breads like cinnamon-raisin. Just keep in mind that denser breads may require a longer soaking time to absorb the egg mixture.
Can I prepare this dish without cream cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture and flavor. For a lighter option, consider using a mixture of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, which will still provide creaminess while reducing calories.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, use plant-based milk, a mixture of flaxseed meal and water as an egg substitute, and replace cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. Ensure your bread is also vegan-friendly. This will create a delicious and satisfying dish without animal products.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).