Baked French Toast

by Melissa McClelland

Moist and tender in the middle with a lovely crust, this bake has been my go-to Christmas morning recipe for years.

Serves 6-8

  • 1 cup maple syrup
  • 1 loaf challah or brioche, thickly sliced
  • 6 eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla

Pour maple syrup into a 13×9 pan and tilt to cover evenly. Tightly pack the sliced bread into a single layer over the syrup. Combine the remaining ingredients and pour over the bread. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 350°. Bake, covered, for 40–45 minutes, or until set. Run briefly under the broiler for a golden brown color. Serve with additional syrup or fresh fruit.