Breakfast French Toast
Sweet and comforting French toast baked with cinnamon and brown sugar, perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch, ideal for family gatherings or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Add brown sugar and cinnamon; stir until combined.
- Arrange bread slices over the sugar mixture in the pan.
- Beat eggs and add milk; stir well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Turn the bread slices over before baking.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the milk with cream. If you prefer a healthier option, use whole grain or gluten-free bread. You can also add vanilla extract or a splash of orange juice to the egg mixture for extra depth. To simplify prep, use pre-sliced bread from the store. This dish can also be customized with toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the French toast warm, topped with powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. A side of crispy bacon or sausage pairs perfectly for a complete breakfast experience. For a delightful twist, try serving it alongside a slice of Cranberry Crumble Coffee Cake for a sweet brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 30-45 seconds, but this may result in a slightly softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast French Toast contains roughly 970 calories, with 9g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium.
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 traditional white bread works well, you can use brioche, challah, or even whole grain bread for added flavor and texture. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce. Use about 1/4 cup of either for each egg. This will give the dish a slightly different flavor but still provide a delicious result, making it suitable for vegan diets.
How long can I keep the French toast in the fridge before baking?
It's best to bake the French toast within 24 hours after assembling. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing it before baking. Just cover the unbaked dish tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
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).