Decadent Vanilla Bean French Toast Bake

Decadent Vanilla Bean French Toast Bake

Ingredients (with US Measuring Cups)
For the French Toast Base:

1 loaf (about 14–16 oz) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old bread is best)

8 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup light brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon salt

For the Crème Brûlée-Inspired Topping:

½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cold and diced

1 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions — Stage-by-Stage
Stage 1: Prepare Your Bread Base

Cut the Bread:

Use day-old French bread or baguette and cut it into 1-inch cubes. The slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.

Layer in Baking Dish:

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish, pressing gently to create a compact layer.

Stage 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

Whisk Eggs and Dairy:

In a large mixing bowl, crack in 8 eggs and beat until yolks and whites are fully combined. Add 2 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream.

Add Flavorings:

Stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract or paste. Whisk well until everything is thoroughly blended.

Stage 3: Soak the Bread

Pour Custard Over Bread:

Slowly pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread in the baking dish. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.

Cover and Chill Overnight:

Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is essential to allow the custard to fully soak into the bread, creating a soft, pudding-like interior.

Stage 4: Make the Topping and Bake

Preheat Oven:

Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare Crumb Topping:

In a small bowl, mix together the cold diced butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use a fork or pastry cutter to create a coarse, crumbly texture.

Sprinkle Topping:

Scatter the crumb mixture evenly over the top of the soaked bread.

Bake:

Place the dish on the center rack and bake for 45–50 minutes. The center should be set but soft, and the top should be golden and slightly crisp.

Stage 5: Finish and Serve

Cool Slightly:

Let the French toast bake sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Optional Garnishes:

Dust with powdered sugar.

Drizzle with warm maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.

Add fresh berries or a touch of caramel sauce for a restaurant-style finish.