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Cinnamon Swirl French Toast: 8 Amazing Tips

Cinnamon Swirl French Toast

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This Cinnamon Swirl French Toast Bake is an easy and delicious breakfast or brunch dish. It combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a baked casserole, featuring a sweet cinnamon swirl throughout.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 16 ounces) brioche or challah bread
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for the swirl)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Optional: maple syrup and whipped cream for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the brioche or challah bread into thick 1-inch pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish in an overlapping pattern.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Pour half of the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices in the baking dish. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to soak in.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Drizzle this mixture over the bread, making sure to distribute it evenly for the perfect swirl.
  5. Pour the remaining custard mixture over the top of the bread. Gently press down on the bread pieces to ensure they absorb the liquid.
  6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is cooked through.
  8. Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm drizzled with maple syrup and topped with whipped cream if desired.

Notes

  • Using day-old bread will yield the best results as it absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy.
  • Ensure even distribution of the cinnamon swirl mixture for a balanced flavor in every bite.
  • Adjust baking time slightly based on your oven to achieve a golden brown top and a set center.

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