1-First Step: Prepare Your Baking Pan Begin by greasing a 13-by-9-inch baking pan with salted butter to ensure your baked French toast slides out easily and doesn’t stick. This step sets the foundation, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors without any mess. Once greased, tear or cut 1 loaf of crusty sourdough or French bread into cubes and spread them evenly in the pan for even cooking.

2-Second Step: Mix the Custard Base In a large bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture forms the heart of your baked French toast, creating a rich, creamy base that soaks into the bread overnight for an enhanced easy make ahead breakfast. For dietary tweaks, you could use half-and-half here if you’re adjusting for creaminess.

3-Third Step: Assemble and Soak Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the pan, making sure every piece gets coated. Cover the pan tightly and refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors meld, which is perfect for this overnight French toast variation. If you’re in a rush, you can bake it immediately, but soaking helps achieve that custardy texture many love in baked French toast recipes.

4-Fourth Step: Prepare the Topping In a separate bowl, mix 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and freshly grated nutmeg if using, then add 1/2 cup cold butter cut into pieces. Use a pastry cutter to blend until it resembles fine pebbles, creating that signature crunchy topping. This step adds the wow factor to your baked French toast, making it a standout easy breakfast option.

5-Fifth Step: Bake to Perfection Preheat your oven to 350°F and sprinkle the topping evenly over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes for a softer, custardy baked French toast or up to 1 hour for a firmer, crispier result the choice depends on your preference. Keep an eye on it to ensure the top turns golden, and remember, baking uncovered helps the streusel caramelize beautifully.

6-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving topped with salted butter, warm syrup, and 1 cup fresh blueberries. This baked French toast recipe serves as a versatile base, perfect for pairing with sides like crispy bacon for a balanced meal. For more baking inspiration, explore our classic red velvet cake to expand your breakfast or dessert options.