cinnamon french toast bake

Published on November 24, 2025
4.8 (245 reviews)

Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend to the sweet, buttery scent of cinnamon drifting from the kitchen. This Cinnamon French Toast Bake captures that moment in a single tray, turning ordinary bread int

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cinnamon french toast bake
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
45 min
Servings
8

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✓ Easy Set‑and‑Bake: Mix once, pop in the oven, and wake up to a golden, caramel‑kissed breakfast that feeds a crowd.
✓ Warm Cinnamon Aroma: The spice‑infused custard releases a comforting scent that makes the whole house feel like a café.
✓ Customizable Toppings: Add fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt for endless flavor twists.

Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend to the sweet, buttery scent of cinnamon drifting from the kitchen. This Cinnamon French Toast Bake captures that moment in a single tray, turning ordinary bread into a luxurious, custardy masterpiece. The recipe is built around everyday ingredients—day‑old brioche, farm‑fresh eggs, and a generous dusting of warm cinnamon—so you can create restaurant‑quality brunch without any fancy equipment. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, the golden crust and silky interior make every bite unforgettable.

4 large eggs Provides structure; for a richer custard add an extra yolk.
1 ½ cups whole milk Can replace with almond or oat milk for a dairy‑free version.
¼ cup pure maple syrup Adds natural sweetness; honey works as a substitute.
2 tsp ground cinnamon Freshly ground gives the brightest flavor.
¼ tsp salt Enhances the sweet and spice notes.
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted Creates a crisp top; can substitute with coconut oil.

Instructions

cinnamon french toast bake
1

Prepare the Bread

Cut the brioche into 1‑inch cubes and spread them in a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish. Lightly toast the cubes for 5 minutes at 350°F if the bread is very fresh; this helps them hold shape during baking.

Pro Tip: Evenly spaced cubes ensure uniform soaking.
2

Make the Custard

In a large bowl whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. The mixture should be slightly frothy, indicating the eggs are well‑incorporated.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
3

Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently toss with a spatula, ensuring every piece is coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid.

Pro Tip: A brief rest prevents soggy spots.
4

Bake to Perfection

Drizzle melted butter over the top, then bake at 350°F for 30‑35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The surface should be slightly crisp.

Pro Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
5

Serve Warm

Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes, then cut into squares. Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or extra maple syrup for a personalized finish.

Pro Tip: Warm plates keep the dish cozy longer.

Expert Tips

Tip #1: Use Day‑Old Bread

Stale bread soaks the custard evenly without turning mushy, giving a perfect bite‑size texture.

Tip #2: Add a Pinch of Nutmeg

Nutmeg deepens the spice profile and pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

Tip #3: Cool Before Cutting

A short rest lets the custard set, making clean, uniform squares.

Storage & Variations

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat individual slices in the toaster oven. For a fruity twist, fold in diced apples or raisins before baking. To make it vegan, replace eggs with flax “egg” and use plant‑based milk and butter.

Nutrition

Per serving

Calories
350 kcal
Protein
9 g
Carbs
42 g
Fat
14 g

Frequently Asked Questions

You can, but the texture will be less rich and the crust may become soggy. Brioche or challah provides the buttery flavor and sturdy crumb that make this bake shine.

Substitute the brioche with a gluten‑free bread that holds shape, such as a sturdy gluten‑free sandwich loaf. Ensure all other ingredients (e.g., maple syrup) are certified gluten‑free.

Yes—mix a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder into the custard. Reduce the milk slightly to keep the consistency smooth.

Warm individual slices in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5‑7 minutes. This restores the crisp top while keeping the interior moist.

Recipe Summary

Prep
3 min
Cook
30 min
Total
33 min
Servings
3
Category: Breakfast and Brunch
Cuisine: International
Difficulty: Easy
Course: Main
Quick Tips
  • Make ahead friendly
  • Freezer safe 3 months
  • Easily doubled
  • Customizable

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lb (≈10 slices) brioche or challah, cubed
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1
Prepare the Bread

Cut the brioche into 1‑inch cubes and spread them in a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish. Lightly toast the cubes for 5 minutes at 350°F if the bread is very fresh; this helps them hold shape during bakin...

2
Make the Custard

In a large bowl whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. The mixture should be slightly frothy, indicating the eggs are well‑incorporated....

3
Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently toss with a spatula, ensuring every piece is coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the liquid....

4
Bake to Perfection

Drizzle melted butter over the top, then bake at 350°F for 30‑35 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The surface should be slightly crisp....

5
Serve Warm

Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes, then cut into squares. Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or extra maple syrup for a personalized finish....

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