Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm, sweet cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, inviting you to indulge in a decadent breakfast that feels like a hug in a dish. Our Pull Apart French Toast Bake is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that transforms your mornings into something truly special. With its fluffy bread soaked in a rich custard, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy brunch with friends. Trust us, once you try this easy-to-make dish, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (challah or brioche)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Prepare your baking dish by generously greasing a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut the challah or brioche bread into 1-inch cubes. Ensure the bread is slightly stale or leave cubes out for 30 minutes to dry slightly, which helps absorb the custard mixture better.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined.
- Arrange the bread cubes loosely in the prepared baking dish, allowing some space between the pieces for the custard to seep through.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, making sure all pieces are moistened. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 30 minutes before you plan to bake.
- Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Drizzle maple syrup evenly over the top of the bread mixture.
- Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar just before serving. Optionally, serve with additional maple syrup on the side.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best results, opt for slightly stale challah or brioche. If your bread is fresh, simply cut it into cubes and let it sit out for about 30 minutes to dry out a bit. This will help it absorb the custard mixture more effectively.
- Make It Ahead: To save time in the morning, prepare your French toast bake the night before. After assembling the dish, cover it with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the flavors and makes for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to get creative with flavors! Add chocolate chips, fresh berries, or nuts to the bread mixture for an extra twist. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or maple, to elevate the taste.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Be sure to bake the dish covered with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent it from browning too quickly. Removing the foil for the last 15 minutes allows the top to crisp up beautifully.
- Serve with Style: Dust the finished bake with powdered sugar just before serving for a touch of elegance. Pair it with extra maple syrup or fresh fruit on the side for a delightful presentation that will wow your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
