This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic baked French toast, featuring a hint of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar for added depth of flavor.
Grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
Ensure the dish is evenly coated to prevent sticking.
Pour the maple syrup into the bottom of the dish.
Spread the syrup evenly for consistent sweetness.
Arrange the bread slices over the syrup in a single layer.
Overlap the slices slightly if needed to fit them all.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth.
Whisk thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing the bread gently to soak up the liquid.
Allow the bread to absorb the custard for a few minutes.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Overnight chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated for even baking.
Bake the dish uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
Serve warm with additional maple syrup or toppings of your choice.
Garnish with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.