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Brown Sugar Maple Butter French Toast Bake Recipe

This easy French Toast Bake is a sweet, buttery breakfast casserole packed with rich maple and brown sugar flavors. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a make-ahead breakfast treat, it’s made with thick-sliced brioche, soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, and baked to golden perfection.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk (or heavy cream)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Topping:

  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  • Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly inside.
  • Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  • Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently so all pieces absorb the liquid. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the casserole sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
  • Add the Topping: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, maple syrup, and melted butter. Drizzle over the soaked bread.
  • Bake: Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until golden brown and slightly crispy on top.
  • Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with extra maple syrup and fresh fruit!

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble the night before and refrigerate overnight for best flavor.
  • Bread Choice: Use slightly stale bread for better absorption.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Customization: Add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit before baking for extra flavor.
  • Author: Chef Crenn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg

Keywords: French toast bake, easy breakfast casserole, maple French toast