Name: Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 (16 ounce) loaf challah bread, torn into 1-inch pieces (about 8 cups); 6 eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 ¾ cups whole milk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon powdered sugar; ¾ cup maple syrup, warmed

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 77 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, the Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a heavenly combination of custardy challah bread soaked in a rich mixture of cream, eggs, and a generous touch of cinnamon, then baked to golden perfection. The sweet aroma of cinnamon mingling with maple syrup will fill your kitchen and your heart, making every bite utterly irresistible. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions when you want to impress without stressing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white dishes arranged on a white marbled surface. On the right, a large white plate is filled with many pieces of cubed bread that are golden brown on the crust and soft white inside. On the left side, there is a clear round plate holding six brown eggs. Nearby, a small white dish holds a mound of cinnamon powder. Below these, a small white bowl contains a dark liquid, and next to it, a speckled white bowl holds two pieces of pale yellow butter. Two glass bottles sit at the bottom left, one filled with white milk and the other empty. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for the Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe is simple, and each one plays a vital role to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From buttery challah bread to the fragrant cinnamon, each addition brings depth and warmth to the dish.

Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Used to grease your baking dish, ensuring that every piece of French toast will come out with a perfect crust.
Challah bread (16-ounce loaf, torn into 1-inch pieces, about 8 cups): Its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor soak up the custard beautifully, creating a creamy inside and crisp edges.
Eggs (6): The backbone of the custard, binding the ingredients and giving the dish structure and richness.
Heavy cream (1 cup): Adds lusciousness to the custard, making each bite deeply satisfying.
Whole milk (1 ¾ cups): Keeps the custard light yet creamy, balancing heaviness from the cream and eggs.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses a sweet aroma that elevates the dish’s overall warmth.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The star spice adding that signature comforting flavor and a hint of spice.
Powdered sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): For a delicate dusting that adds a pretty touch and a kiss of sweetness before serving.
Maple syrup (¾ cup, warmed, optional): To drizzle generously, providing a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

How to Make Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then generously butter the bottom and sides of your baking dish with the unsalted butter. This simple step prevents sticking and adds a subtle buttery crispness to the edges of your baked French toast.

Step 2: Assemble the Bread

Tear your challah bread into roughly 1-inch pieces, aiming for about 8 cups total. Spread the bread pieces evenly in the buttered baking dish, making sure not to overcrowd; this lets the custard soak in uniformly for a perfect texture.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until combined and smooth. The cinnamon doesn’t just flavor the custard—it also gives it that cozy, warm color that’s so inviting.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the challah bread pieces in your baking dish. Press the bread gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon to help soak up as much custard as possible. Then, let it sit for at least 10 minutes; this soaking time is crucial for super creamy results.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking dish on the middle rack and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custard is set, the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted comes out clean. The edges will be crisp, contrasting beautifully with the soft, custardy center.

How to Serve Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe

A white plate holds a layered mix of toasted golden-brown bread pieces with a soft, airy inside, topped with sprinkled powdered sugar and cinnamon dust. Scattered between the bread chunks are shiny black blackberries and small pieces of pecans adding texture and dark brown color. On one side of the plate, a creamy white dollop of whipped cream rests smooth and thick. A silver fork lies next to the bread on the plate, all set on a white marbled surface with part of a gray cloth visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe, a light dusting of powdered sugar looks gorgeous and adds a subtle sweetness. Fresh berries or sliced bananas are excellent fresh accompaniments, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream makes every bite feel like dessert.

Side Dishes

Add a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a salty contrast, transforming your breakfast into a hearty feast. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. These thoughtful pairings turn the experience from just tasty to truly memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of serving in one big casserole, try scooping into individual ramekins for a charming presentation. For brunch gatherings, set up a toppings bar with nuts, fresh fruit, and flavored syrups so everyone can customize their portion. Trust me, presentation adds excitement to eating and makes sharing this recipe even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of the Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe, cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, sometimes tasting even better the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking, cool completely, then portion and wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or freezer-safe containers. Frozen portions will keep for up to 2 months and make for a quick, decadent breakfast anytime.

Reheating

To warm up leftovers, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp again. Avoid the microwave if possible since it can make the texture rubbery. Reheated with care, the Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe remains just as delightful as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than challah?

Absolutely! While challah is ideal for its sweetness and texture, brioche or Texas toast also work wonderfully. Just make sure to choose a thick, sturdy bread that will hold up when soaked in custard.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the heavy cream and whole milk for full-fat coconut milk or your preferred plant-based milk. For butter, use a dairy-free alternative to grease the dish. The flavor will differ slightly but remain delicious.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for prepping the night before. After assembling with custard and bread, cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. Then bake in the morning for a stress-free, soulful breakfast.

What’s the best way to warm up maple syrup?

Warm maple syrup gently in a small saucepan over low heat or in the microwave at 20-second intervals until just warm. This helps it flow smoothly over your French toast without losing that rich flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a sturdy gluten-free bread that holds up when soaked, such as gluten-free brioche or a dense sandwich loaf. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially vanilla extract and any optional toppings.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe the Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe is a game-changer for breakfast lovers longing for comfort and a little touch of luxury. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish is such a cherished favorite—rich, cozy, and incredibly satisfying every single time. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same again!

Decadent Baked French Toast with Cinnamon and Maple Syrup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need