Start by greasing a 9-inch x 13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent your Baked French Toast from sticking and ensure easy serving.
Next, arrange the sliced French bread in an even layer in the greased baking dish. It's best to fit the slices snugly together, so they soak up the custard evenly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Look for a frothy mixture that combines all the ingredients seamlessly.
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish. Make sure each slice is well coated. It’s okay if some of the custard pools at the bottom.
Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes. If you prefer, cover it and let it soak overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that golden-brown top.
Once preheated, place your baking dish in the oven and bake the soaked bread for 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the top should be golden brown and the custard should be set.
After baking, take the dish out and let it cool slightly. This will help with slicing and serving.
Serve your Baked French Toast warm, topped with fresh berries and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy the deliciousness!
