Cranberry Orange French Toast Bake

Cranberry Orange French Toast Bake

A warm and comforting French toast bake featuring layers of brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich custard with cranberries and orange zest, perfect for chilly mornings and festive gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 loaf (about 16 oz) day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes Use day-old bread for best texture.
8 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half.
2/3 cup granulated sugar Can substitute with brown sugar or honey.
2 tbsp orange zest
1/3 cup fresh orange juice
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries Fresh cranberries recommended.

Streusel Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
6 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/3 cup chopped pecans Can substitute with walnuts or omit.

Serving Suggestions

Powdered sugar and pure maple syrup For serving.

Method

Preparation

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Scatter the cranberries evenly over the bread cubes. Pour the custard mixture evenly over everything, gently pressing down with a spatula to ensure all the bread is submerged.

Chill Overnight

Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Let the dish sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly on top and bake for 40-45 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

Rest and Serve

Let the bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with pure maple syrup.

Notes

Be sure to let the bread soak overnight for the best results. Watch for overbaking, the middle should have a slight jiggle. Can be served with salad or bacon.