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Easy Baked French Toast With Cinnamon

An easy baked French toast with cinnamon made with soft bread, eggs, milk, vanilla, and warm cinnamon for a comforting homemade breakfast.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Calories: 390
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 thick slices brioche challah, or sturdy white bread
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
For Serving:
  • Maple syrup optional
  • Powdered sugar optional
  • Fresh berries optional
  • Sliced bananas optional
  • Greek yogurt optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with some of the melted butter.
  2. Arrange the thick bread slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly if needed.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and evenly combined.
  4. Pour the cinnamon custard evenly over the bread, making sure the slices are well coated.
  5. Gently press the bread down with a spatula or the back of a spoon so it can absorb the custard.
  6. Let the bread soak for 10–15 minutes.
  7. Drizzle the remaining melted butter over the top and sprinkle with the optional brown sugar.
  8. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
  9. For a crispier top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the French toast rest for about 5 minutes.
  11. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, sliced bananas, or your preferred toppings.

Notes

  • Thick-cut brioche or challah works especially well because it absorbs the custard without falling apart.
  • Slightly day-old bread can provide a better texture than very fresh bread.
  • Avoid adding too much custard or fruit, as excess moisture can make the center soggy.
  • Add extra cinnamon or a small pinch of nutmeg for a warmer spice flavor.