Ingredients:


1 loaf (preferably day-old or slightly stale for best results)

1 stick of butter (1/2 cup), in liquid form

1 cup brown sugar

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Powdered sugar (for that finishing touch)

A sprinkle of cinnamon

Steps:


Melt the butter until smooth and fluid.

Integrate the melted butter and brown sugar until they marry well.

Pour this sweet concoction evenly across the base of a 9 x 13 baking pan.

Whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla in a separate vessel until harmoniously combined.

Lay out your bread slices forming a cozy layer atop the butter and sugar base.

Drizzle half of your egg blend generously, ensuring each slice basks in the mixture.

Introduce a hint of warmth with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Continue with another layer of bread slices.

Baptize this layer too with the remaining egg potion.

Lid it and let it sit in the fridge overnight, a pause for flavors to deepen.

On baking day, fire up your oven to 350°F (175°C). Half-shielded, bake for 30 minutes, then let it see the oven's full heat for the remaining 15 minutes.

Crown your golden bake with powdered sugar and a whisper more of cinnamon.

Warm maple syrup, standing by, makes for the perfect accompaniment to this breakfast marvel. The French Toast Bake is not just a dish, but an experience - a cherished ritual that bridges the past with the present. So, draw near, share stories, and dive into a bite of history with every forkful. Enjoy!