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!
