Few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia of a homemade breakfast like a biscuit French toast bake. Combining the buttery richness of biscuits with the creamy, spiced goodness of French toast, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or treating your family to a weekend indulgence, this recipe promises to impress.
In addition to being delicious, this bake is incredibly versatile. For example, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or serve it alongside savory dishes for a balanced meal. If you’re planning a holiday breakfast, pair it with sweet potato and apple casserole for a seasonal spread. Moreover, a tangy dish like Ocean Spray cranberry orange relish adds a refreshing contrast.
What Makes Biscuit French Toast Bake Special?
Unlike traditional French toast, which involves dipping bread slices individually, biscuit French toast bake transforms the process into a single, effortless dish. Pre-baked biscuits are torn into chunks, soaked in a spiced custard, and baked to golden perfection.
This dish is ideal for various occasions:
- Family Gatherings: Serve it for holidays, birthdays, or weekend brunches.
- Meal Prep: It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for make-ahead breakfasts.
- Customizable Options: Add fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to make it your own.
For a complete breakfast spread, consider pairing it with this savory green bean casserole. It provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple pantry staples, which you likely already have at home.
For the Bake
- Biscuits: Use day-old or slightly stale biscuits for the best texture.
- Eggs: These form the base of the custard.
- Milk: Whole milk is recommended for a creamy consistency.
Flavor Enhancers
- Vanilla Extract: Adds sweetness and depth.
- Cinnamon: The quintessential spice for French toast.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like flavor.
Optional Toppings
- Maple Syrup: A classic choice.
- Powdered Sugar: Perfect for a touch of elegance.
- Fresh Fruit: Berries or bananas for added freshness.
Additional Customizations
- Chocolate Chips: For a kid-friendly twist.
- Nuts: Pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Biscuit French Toast Bake
This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet it produces a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Biscuits | 6 large | Day-old preferred. |
| Eggs | 6 | |
| Milk | 2 cups | Whole milk works best. |
| Heavy Cream | ½ cup | Adds richness. |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tbsp | |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Ground. |
| Brown Sugar | ½ cup | Packed. |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Melted, for greasing. |
| Maple Syrup | As needed | For serving. |
Instructions
- Prepare the Biscuits
- If using fresh biscuits, bake them in advance and let them cool completely.
- Tear the biscuits into bite-sized chunks and set aside.
- Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
- Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Assemble the Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Spread the torn biscuit pieces evenly in the dish. Pour the custard mixture over the biscuits, ensuring they are fully soaked.
- Chill for Best Results
- Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This step allows the biscuits to absorb the custard completely.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake the dish uncovered for 40–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let the bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit as desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Bake
- Choose the Right Biscuits
- Day-old biscuits are less likely to disintegrate in the custard.
- Don’t Skip Refrigeration
- Allowing the dish to rest ensures even absorption, preventing dry spots.
- Add Unique Flavors
- For example, sprinkle orange zest over the custard for a citrusy twist.
- Serve Immediately
- While leftovers are delicious, this bake is best served fresh and warm.
Why Biscuit French Toast Bake is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish checks all the boxes for a memorable breakfast or brunch.
- Ease of Preparation: The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
- Scalable: Easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the night before for a hassle-free morning.
FAQs About Biscuit French Toast Bake
What is the most common mistake in making French toast?
Over-soaking the bread or biscuits can lead to a soggy texture. Use slightly stale biscuits and ensure they are evenly coated but not drenched.
How to toast biscuits in the oven?
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice the biscuits in half, arrange them on a baking sheet, and toast for 5–7 minutes.
What is the trick to not soggy French toast?
The key is using dry or day-old bread. Additionally, avoid letting the bread sit too long in the custard.
How do you make Nigella French toast?
Nigella Lawson’s French toast often includes a touch of orange zest and nutmeg for added flavor complexity.
Perfect Pairings for Biscuit French Toast Bake
Complete your breakfast spread with these complementary recipes:
- Rice French Onion Soup: A cozy and savory option.
- Ocean Spray Cranberry Relish: Adds a tangy contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Chip French Toast Bake
- Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a kid-friendly twist.
- Savory Version
- Skip the sugar and vanilla, and add shredded cheese and cooked bacon for a savory take.
- Cranberry and Orange
- Mix dried cranberries and orange zest into the custard for a festive touch.
Conclusion
Biscuit French toast bake is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. Combining the creamy richness of custard with the buttery texture of biscuits, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or simply want a special weekend breakfast, this bake is sure to delight.
Pair it with sweet potato and apple casserole or a savory green bean casserole to create a balanced, unforgettable meal.
