How to Cook a Zesty Orange French Toast Bake: A Sweet Breakfast Delight!
Start your morning on a bright note with this scrumptious Orange French Toast Bake! This delightful dish transforms the classic breakfast favorite into an easy-to-prepare casserole, perfect for feeding a crowd. Infused with the zesty essence of fresh oranges and a hint of vanilla, each bite is a warm embrace of sweet, custardy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply looking for a cozy weekend treat, this Orange French Toast Bake promises to elevate your breakfast game and fill your home with irresistible aromas. Gather your loved ones, slice into this heavenly bake, and watch as smiles spread with each delicious bite!
Orange French Toast Bake
Description:
Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat with this Orange French Toast Bake! This easy-to-make casserole combines fluffy bread soaked in a creamy orange custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a sweet orange glaze. Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts!
Ingredients:
- For the Bake:
- 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, cut into cubes (about 8 cups)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Combine:
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Bake:
- Remove the plastic wrap and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the bake is cooling, prepare the orange glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm French toast bake before serving. Enjoy it with fresh fruit or whipped cream, if desired!
Tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the bread mixture before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the microwave for a quick breakfast treat!
