Oven-Baked French Toast
Oven-Baked French Toast offers a golden, custardy breakfast treat topped with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. Its warm, comforting flavors are perfect for weekend brunch or leisurely mornings, appealing to families and breakfast enthusiasts seeking a delicious, make-ahead dish with fruity brightness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cut the French bread into 1-inch-thick slices and arrange closely in a single layer in the prepared dish.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the milk, 3 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla, and salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the bread if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Slice the strawberries and place in a bowl.
- Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar to the strawberries and mix lightly.
- Serve the baked French toast topped with the strawberry mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a brioche or challah bread instead of French bread. You can substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version. If you're short on time, you can skip the overnight refrigeration, but letting it soak enhances the texture. To make it extra special, try adding some Pudding Mix to the egg mixture for a creamier consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked French toast with the strawberry mixture on top for a fresh, fruity finish. It pairs beautifully with Maple Nut Chiffon Cake for a brunch spread. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside a Green Pea Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a toaster or an oven set to 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but this may make them slightly less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven-Baked French Toast contains roughly 486 calories, with 2g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% 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 gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. Many brands offer great alternatives that work well in baked dishes. Just ensure that all other ingredients, like sugar and vanilla, are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze the baked French toast?
Yes, you can freeze the baked French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place 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.
What can I use instead of strawberries?
If strawberries are not available, you can substitute them with other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. Alternatively, sliced bananas or diced apples can also work well. Just adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
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).