Some mornings, you just need breakfast to be effortless and indulgent all at once. The kind of meal that feels luxurious but doesn’t demand a lot from you.
Enter baked brioche French toast: a dish that blends classic flavors with the convenience of a no-fuss preparation. If you’ve ever wished for a brunch-worthy breakfast without the hassle, this is it.
Why Baked French Toast Is Amazing
Traditional French toast can be a juggling act, flipping each slice in a pan while trying to keep everything warm.
With this baked version, all the heavy lifting happens in the oven. It’s perfect for mornings when you’d rather savor your coffee than stand over the stove.
The brioche bread, rich with buttery goodness, transforms into a custardy base with just the right touch of crisp edges. Plus, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or lazy Sunday mornings.
The Secret to Perfect Texture
The magic starts with brioche bread, known for its light, pillowy texture and slightly sweet flavor. When soaked in a mixture of eggs, coconut milk, and a hint of bourbon, it absorbs just the right amount of moisture without turning soggy.
The final bake creates a golden, caramelized top that’s irresistibly crispy while leaving the inside soft and creamy. A cinnamon-sugar butter topping adds another layer of decadence, making every bite feel special.
Jam Pairings to Elevate the Flavor
This recipe suggests serving the French toast with any fruit jam, which opens the door to endless possibilities. Opt for tart raspberry jam to cut through the richness, or go for something seasonal like apricot or fig for a Mediterranean twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade jam takes it to the next level, letting you customize sweetness and texture to your liking.
Tips for Customizing Your French Toast
Baked brioche French toast is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free brioche or challah to make it friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
- Dairy-Free Version: Stick to coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for the same creamy results.
- Low-Sugar Alternative: Use sugar-free jam or drizzle a touch of honey for a natural sweetener.
These small tweaks ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this delicious breakfast.
Why It’s Perfect for Meal Prep
Not only does this dish shine fresh out of the oven, but it also reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Bake it the night before and simply warm individual portions in the morning.
Paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a handful of fresh berries, it’s just as delicious the next day.
A Dish That Brings People Together
There’s something inherently comforting about baked French toast. It invites you to slow down, gather your loved ones, and share a meal that feels celebratory yet approachable.
Whether you’re serving it for a festive holiday breakfast or just to make an ordinary weekend feel special, this recipe is all about creating moments that matter.
With its easy preparation, versatile flavors, and undeniable charm, baked brioche French toast is a must-try for any fan of easy food recipes. It’s a reminder that even the simplest dishes can feel indulgent and joyful.
So, grab a fork, and your favorite jam, and enjoy every bite.
Easy Baked Brioche French Toast Recipe with Fruit Jam
Equipment
- 9 x 13-inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Small saucepan (for jam)
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted
- 8 large eggs beaten
- 1 14-ounce can full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons bourbon optional
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 brioche or challah bread loaf cut into 8 thick slices
- 2 tablespoons salted butter at room temperature
- whipped cream, for serving optional
For the Any Fruit Jam:
- 6 cups fresh fruit e.g., berries, stone fruit, or apples
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
To Make the French Toast:
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Mix maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and melted butter in the dish.
- Soak the Bread: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, coconut milk, bourbon (if using), vanilla, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt. Submerge each bread slice in the egg mixture for at least 1 minute. Arrange the bread in the baking dish, then pour the remaining egg mixture evenly over the slices.
- Top with Butter Mixture: Combine softened butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Spread this mixture over the bread slices. Cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to overnight.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and crisp. If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
- Serve: Top with fruit jam and whipped cream (optional).
To Make the Any Fruit Jam:
- Cook the Jam: In a small saucepan, combine fruit, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–8 minutes, mashing with a fork or potato masher. Reduce by one-third.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- This recipe can be customized with any type of bread or seasonal fruits.
- The bourbon adds a rich depth to the custard, but it can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serve with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.