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A delicious serving of Paula Deen’s baked French toast topped with pecans, golden syrup, and fresh berries on a rustic breakfast table.

Paula Deen’s Baked French Toast

This Paula Deen baked French toast recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, buttery custard and crispy, golden bread. Topped with pecans, a touch of maple syrup, and fresh berries, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you serve it for a cozy breakfast, brunch, or special occasion, it's guaranteed to impress!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Breakfast, brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf French bread day-old or slightly stale
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup pecans optional, for topping
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup optional, for drizzling
  • 1 cup fresh berries optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Fork or whisk
  • Knife for slicing bread
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the bread: Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  3. Make the custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, half-and-half, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Pour the custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, making sure they are all soaked. Press the bread down gently to ensure it absorbs the mixture.
  5. Refrigerate: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
  6. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
  7. Garnish: After baking, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and top with fresh berries, pecans, and maple syrup.

Notes

  • Make-ahead option: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it the next morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this dish.
  • Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! You can use whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a fun twist.