Cinnamon French Toast is a classic breakfast dish that is loved by many. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet syrup-soaked bread is simply irresistible. While traditionally prepared on the stovetop, making cinnamon French toast in the oven is a convenient and effortless way to serve a delicious breakfast to a large number of people.
Ingredients
To make cinnamon French toast in the oven, you will need the following ingredients:
1. Bread slices – Use thick slices of bread such as brioche or challah for the best results. Stale bread works well too as it soaks up the custard mixture better.
2. Eggs – Beat the eggs well and set them aside.
3. Milk – Mix the eggs with milk to create a custard mixture that will coat the bread slices.
4. Vanilla extract – A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma to the French toast.
5. Cinnamon – Use ground cinnamon to give the French toast its signature flavor.
6. Sugar – A tablespoon or two of sugar can be added to the custard mixture for a touch of sweetness.
7. Butter – Use melted butter to coat the baking dish and to drizzle over the bread slices.
InstructionsStep 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined. The cinnamon will infuse the custard mixture with its warm and comforting flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure that it is nice and hot when your French toast goes in. This temperature allows the toast to bake evenly and develop a golden, crispy crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish generously with melted butter to prevent the bread from sticking. You can also use cooking spray if desired. Make sure the dish is large enough to hold all the bread slices in a single layer without overlapping.
Step 4: Dip and Arrange the Bread Slices
Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, ensuring that both sides are coated. Allow any excess custard to drip off before transferring the soaked bread slices to the prepared baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer, leaving a small gap between each slice to ensure even baking.
Step 5: Bake the French Toast
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the tops of the bread slices turn golden brown. The French toast will puff up slightly as it cooks, creating a light and fluffy texture.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the French toast is golden and crispy, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, or serve with fresh berries for an extra touch of indulgence. The aroma of cinnamon will fill your kitchen, and your taste buds will be delighted with each flavorful bite.
Benefits of Making French Toast in the Oven
There are several advantages to making cinnamon French toast in the oven instead of on the stovetop. Firstly, the oven method allows you to cook a large batch of French toast all at once, making it an ideal choice for feeding a crowd or hosting a brunch. This saves you time and effort, as you won’t have to stand over a hot stove flipping individual slices of bread.
Additionally, baking French toast in the oven results in a more even and consistent cooking process. The custard mixture absorbs into the bread evenly, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful. The oven’s heat surrounds the bread slices, allowing them to crisp up on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside.
Moreover, making French toast in the oven eliminates the need for excessive butter or oil. The bread absorbs the custard mixture and bakes to golden perfection without the need for greasing the pan or skillet for each slice. This results in a healthier and lighter version of the beloved breakfast dish.
Conclusion
Making cinnamon French toast in the oven is a wonderful way to enjoy a delicious and effortless breakfast. The warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of syrup, and the delightful combination of textures make this dish a favorite among breakfast lovers. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can easily create a batch of cinnamon French toast that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delightful morning treat.