Dessert

Baked French Toast Recipe

Name: Baked French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened (for buttering the baking dish); 14 ounces French baguette (about 397 grams; ends optional); 8 extra large eggs; 1½ cups half and half; 1 cup heavy cream; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 3 tablespoons maple syrup; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon pure almond extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

ByJeannette Jaeger February 28, 2026February 28, 2026

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Introduction

This baked French toast is a comforting and easy breakfast dish that combines custardy bread soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, cream, and warm spices. Perfect for a weekend brunch or special morning treat, it bakes to golden perfection and is dusted with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.

A thick, golden-brown French toast slice sits on a white plate with a thin dark rim, dusted lightly with powdered sugar that highlights its uneven, crispy texture. Beneath the toast, syrup glistens and pools slightly, giving a glossy shine. Around the toast on the plate and nearby on a white marbled surface, fresh raspberries and blueberries are scattered, adding bright red and deep blue pops of color. Two white cups filled with dark coffee are placed slightly blurred in the background, alongside a white baking dish containing more French toast. In the foreground, the edge of a gray and white checkered napkin and shiny silver forks rest on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons salted butter, softened (for buttering the baking dish)
14 ounces French baguette (about 397 grams)
8 extra large eggs
1½ cups half and half
1 cup heavy cream
⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon pure almond extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 tablespoons powdered sugar (for dusting after baking)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Use a pastry brush to evenly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Slice off the ends of the baguette, then cut the remaining bread into ¾-inch thick slices. You may use the end pieces if desired.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, heavy cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until fully combined.
Step 4: Submerge each slice of baguette into the egg mixture, soaking for about 5 seconds on each side to absorb the custard thoroughly.
Step 5: Layer and slightly overlap the soaked bread slices in the buttered baking dish. Pour any remaining egg mixture evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the French toast is puffed and golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and dust the top with powdered sugar. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use slightly stale baguette for better custard absorption without the bread falling apart.
For a fruity twist, add fresh berries or sliced apples between the bread layers before baking.
Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar for a different sweet flavor.
If you don’t have half and half, you can substitute with equal parts milk and cream.

Storage

Store leftover baked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until heated through. You can also reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness.

How to Serve

A thick, golden-brown French toast slice sits in the center of a white plate, covered with a shiny layer of caramel syrup that pools around the base. The toast has a soft, slightly fluffy texture visible on the side cut, with a crispy outer edge. Scattered on and around the toast are bright red raspberries and deep blue blueberries, adding fresh color contrast. A fine dusting of white powdered sugar is sprinkled over the toast and berries. The plate rests on a light pink textured cloth, set on a white marbled surface, with a partially visible glass of milk in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this French toast the night before?

Yes, you can soak the bread slices in the custard mixture the night before, cover the dish, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed for a convenient breakfast.