What bread works best for this dish?

Day-old brioche or challah bread sliced thick is ideal for soaking up custard while maintaining structure during baking.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish covered for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow full custard absorption before baking.

The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom create a warm, aromatic profile that enhances the custard's richness.

Drizzle maple syrup, dust powdered sugar, or add fresh berries to complement the sweet, spiced flavors.

Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the topping, and diced apples or pears between bread layers add extra flavor.

A comforting, custardy baked French toast infused with warm spices, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or a relaxed weekend breakfast treat.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite during chilly mornings and cozy weekends.

Bread: 1 loaf (about 450 g) brioche or challah, day-old, sliced thick
Custard: 4 large eggs, 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk, 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream, 1/3 cup (65 g) light brown sugar, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/8 tsp ground cardamom, Pinch of salt
Topping: 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Optional Garnishes: Maple syrup, Powdered sugar, Fresh berries

Step 1:: Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2:: Arrange the bread slices in the dish, overlapping slightly.
Step 3:: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt until smooth.
Step 4:: Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread down to help it soak up the mixture.
Step 5:: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the topping. Drizzle evenly over the casserole.
Step 6:: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
Step 7:: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 8:: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and just set in the center.
Step 9:: Let cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries as desired.

We cherish family breakfasts where everyone gathers around to enjoy this warm dish together.

9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Small bowl, Measuring cups and spoons

Contains: Eggs, Milk (Dairy), Wheat (Gluten). May contain tree nuts if added as variation. Always check bread and ingredient labels for allergens.

Calories: 350, Total Fat: 16 g, Carbohydrates: 44 g, Protein: 9 g per serving

Make this recipe your own by experimenting with spices and toppings for a personalized breakfast treat.

→ What bread works best for this dish?: Day-old brioche or challah bread sliced thick is ideal for soaking up custard while maintaining structure during baking.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?: Yes, refrigerate the assembled dish covered for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow full custard absorption before baking.
→ How do the spices affect the flavor?: The cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom create a warm, aromatic profile that enhances the custard's richness.
→ Are there suggested toppings?: Drizzle maple syrup, dust powdered sugar, or add fresh berries to complement the sweet, spiced flavors.
→ Can I add nuts or fruits?: Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the topping, and diced apples or pears between bread layers add extra flavor.