Cinnamon Baked French Toast Recipe: The Easiest Way to Feed a Crowd

Name: Cinnamon Baked French Toast Recipe: The Easiest Way to Feed a Crowd
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread, cut into thick slices; 6 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Sliced bananas or berries (optional); Maple syrup for serving

By Jason Griffith

April 20, 2025 3 Min Read

Cinnamon Baked French Toast: A Cozy Morning Delight

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of cinnamon wafting through the house. This Cinnamon Baked French Toast recipe is not just a dish; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood. Every Sunday, my family would gather around the table, laughter filling the air as we enjoyed this sweet treat together. It was a time of connection, warmth, and love, and now I get to share that experience with my own family.

What Makes It Special

This recipe stands out for several reasons:

Effortless Preparation: You can prepare it the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings, this dish serves multiple people without much fuss.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite fruits or nuts to make it your own.

Gather Your Ingredients

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8

1 loaf of thick bread (like challah or brioche)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter for greasing the baking dish
Maple syrup for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
Cut the bread into thick slices and arrange them in the baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring they are well soaked.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving with warm maple syrup.

My Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
Try adding sliced bananas or berries to the bread layers for a fruity twist.
If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar in the egg mixture by a couple of tablespoons.

What to Serve With It

This Cinnamon Baked French Toast pairs wonderfully with:

Fresh fruit salad
Crispy bacon or sausage links
A steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free bread, and you’re good to go.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

The Heart of the Dish

This Cinnamon Baked French Toast is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to create lasting memories with loved ones. The joy of sharing a meal, the laughter around the table, and the warmth of cinnamon in the air all come together to make this dish truly special. I hope it brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.

Your Turn

I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients, add your favorite toppings, and share your experiences. I would love to hear how it turns out for you!