French Toast Bake is a delicious and comforting breakfast dish that is perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends. Originating in medieval France, where it was known as “pain perdu,” meaning “lost bread,” this dish was created to use up stale or leftover bread and transform it into a delectable treat. Today, French Toast Bake has evolved into a popular variation of the classic French Toast, allowing for easy preparation and serving a crowd. This delightful dish brings warmth and nostalgia to any breakfast table.

How to Make the Perfect French Toast Bake
Ingredient Quantity
Loaf of bread 1 (preferably slightly stale or day-old bread)
Butter 1 stick (1/2 cup), melted
Brown sugar 1 cup
Eggs 4
Milk 1 1/2 cups
Vanilla 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar For sprinkling
Cinnamon For sprinkling
Instructions
Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture: Begin by melting the butter in the microwave until it’s completely liquid. Combine the melted butter with the brown sugar, stirring until thoroughly mixed.
Prepare the Pan: Pour the butter and sugar mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13 pan, spreading it evenly across the pan.
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the milk and vanilla until well combined.
Layer the Bread: Lay out single slices of the thickly sliced bread in the pan, forming a layer over the butter and sugar mixture.
Add the Egg Mixture: Gently spoon half of the egg mixture over the layer of bread, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle a portion of cinnamon evenly over the layer of bread and eggs.
Repeat the Layers: Place a second layer of sliced bread over the existing layer in the pan. Spoon the remaining half of the egg mixture over the new layer of bread.
Chill Overnight: Cover the pan and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). When baking, cover the pan for the first 30 minutes, then uncover for the remaining 15 minutes.
Serve: Once fully baked, take the pan out of the oven. Sprinkle powdered sugar and additional cinnamon over the top for added flavor and presentation. Serve with warm maple syrup.