Make Ahead French Toast
Make Ahead French Toast is a delightful breakfast dish that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with the comforting texture of custard-soaked bread. Perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, this dish can be prepared the night before, allowing you to enjoy a warm, indulgent treat with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together eggs, milk, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Using a 13 x 9-inch pan, put some melted margarine in the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle a bit of the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture, then lay down six slices of bread dunked in the egg and milk mixture and repeat the layers.
- Do three layers of bread, six slices each.
- Prepare the night before.
- Cook, uncovered, at 350° for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, substitute whole milk with heavy cream or add a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced bread or even croissants for a decadent twist. To enhance the cinnamon flavor, consider using Saigon cinnamon, which is sweeter and more aromatic than regular cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this French toast warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries or banana slices make delightful toppings, adding a burst of freshness. For a complete breakfast, pair it with crispy bacon or sausage links, and consider serving alongside a fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in a toaster or oven at 350°F until warmed through. For a quick fix, you can microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, keeping them moist with a damp paper towel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Make Ahead French Toast contains roughly 856 calories, with 5g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), iron (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg per serving (25% 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 make this recipe with gluten-free bread?
Yes, you can easily substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold up during soaking. Also, check that your margarine and any additional toppings are gluten-free to keep the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free milk alternative such as almond, soy, or oat milk. You can also replace the margarine with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread to keep it rich and flavorful without any dairy.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven or toaster.
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).