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Make Ahead French Toast Recipe

Make Ahead French Toast

This Make Ahead French Toast is perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings. Just assemble the night before and bake in the morning for a cozy, custardy treat with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 persons
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch slices
  • 6 large eggs
  • 500 ml whole milk
  • 120 ml heavy cream
  • 100 g granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • optional powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh fruit for serving

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking dish
  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 plastic wrap or foil

Method
 

  1. Grease the 9x13 inch baking dish with a little butter.
  2. Arrange the bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping them.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing down lightly to ensure all the bread is soaked.
  5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
  6. In the morning, preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap or foil.
  7. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread.
  8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set.
  9. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
  10. Serve warm, topped with powdered sugar, syrup, and fresh fruit if desired.

Notes

To add crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
Use any sturdy, slightly stale bread for best results.
Can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead.