Vanilla Maple Baked French Toast
User Reviews
5
Vanilla Maple Baked French Toast
Description
This Vanilla Maple Baked French Toast begins with bread cut into triangles arranged in a buttered or sprayed pan, over which a mix of eggs, half and half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt is poured. The bread soaks in the custard base, either for 30 minutes or overnight, creating a tender, flavorful interior. The topping combines dark brown sugar, raw sugar, chopped pecans, cinnamon, and salt, sprinkled over just before baking.
Baked at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes, the dish emerges golden on top with a set but moist custard inside, offering a sweet maple flavor enhanced by vanilla and warm spices. The pecans add a crunchy texture that complements the soft bread. The gradual soak and bake method develop a rich, balanced taste throughout.
This bake serves well as a hearty breakfast or brunch item, easily portioned and served warm, perhaps with additional syrup or fruit on the side. It also stores well refrigerated and can be reheated gently.
Vanilla-infused maple syrup is an excellent ingredient choice to boost vanilla notes without extra vanilla extract. Whole wheat bread or walnuts can be used as alternatives for slight flavor and texture variations. Doubling the recipe is possible for larger gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 lices bread cut into triangles
- 4 egg large
- 2 ½ cups half and half
- 2/3 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (if you can find vanilla-infused maple syrup, skip the vanilla)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon raw sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons pecans chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Grease an 8x8 baking pan with butter or baking spray.
- Cut the bread into triangles, and arrange in the baking pan.
- In a measuring jug, whisk together the eggs, half and half, maple syrup vanilla and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the bread.
- Cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight.
- Heat the oven to 350F.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, pecans, cinnamon and salt.
- Sprinkle topping over the bread.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown on the top and set.
- Allow to cool slightly.
- Cut into slices, and serve.
- Devour.
Notes
- If you can find vanilla-infused maple syrup, omit the vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
- Use cinnamon-infused maple syrup to enhance the spiced flavor profile if desired.
- Whole wheat bread can be substituted for white bread for a heartier texture.
- Walnuts may replace pecans in the topping depending on availability or preference.
- Making a double batch saves time when serving larger groups or for leftovers.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 467 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 467kcal | 23% |
| Carbohydrates | 62g | 21% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Cholesterol | 146mg | 49% |
| Sodium | 668mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 367mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 31g | 62% |
| Vitamin A | 515IU | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 0.9mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 246mg | 25% |
| Iron | 2.7mg | 15% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.