When the weekend rolls around, nothing feels quite as cozy as a warm plate of Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast. This isn’t just any breakfast; each slice of fluffy challah is filled with a dreamy whipped cream cheese filling that takes comfort food to the next level. Imagine cutting into that golden crust, only to reveal a luscious center that feels like a hug on a plate!
With its delightful crunchy topping, caramelized to perfection, this dish becomes an irresistible centerpiece for leisurely brunches, whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a casual Sunday morning. I discovered this recipe during a particularly cozy autumn afternoon, and it quickly transformed into a family favorite—perfect for celebrating special occasions like Mother’s Day or Easter.
Get ready to indulge in this creamy, sweet delight that’s sure to please both family and friends, making every bite a moment to savor!
Why You’ll Love Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast
Indulgence awaits with every bite of this brunch masterpiece!
Unique flavors combine a sweet cream cheese filling and crispy topping, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Crowd-pleaser your family and friends with this easy-to-make dish—perfect for gatherings or quiet mornings.
Versatile ingredients allow for delicious variations, like adding nuts or fresh berries.
Time-saving prep lets you soak overnight for effortless baking the next day! Experience the warm, comforting hug of home-cooked goodness that elevates breakfast to an occasion.
Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast Ingredients
• For your perfect brunch delight!
For the Creamy Filling
- Cream Cheese – Adds richness and creaminess to the filling; can be substituted with mascarpone for a different flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Provides moisture and fluffiness to the cream cheese mixture; ensure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Vanilla – Enhances flavor in both the filling and custard; use pure vanilla extract for best results.
For the French Toast
- Challah Bread – Key structure for the French toast, providing a soft interior and crispy exterior; brioche can be substituted if needed.
- Large Eggs – Essential for the custard base, giving the dish its custardy texture; ensure they are well-beaten to incorporate air.
- Whole Milk – Helps in creating the custard; can be replaced with a dairy-free alternative if desired.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors; use less if using table salt.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to the custard and cinnamon crunch topping; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
- Ground Cinnamon – Key flavor component, giving the dish its signature taste; adjust to personal preference.
For the Crunch Topping
- Flour – Used to create the cinnamon crunch topping, ensuring it clumps together with butter.
- Salted Butter – For greasing the dish and included in the topping for richness; melt for easy mixing.
Now that you’re armed with the ingredients for this delightful Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast, let’s dive into creating a brunch masterpiece that will wow everyone at your table!
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast
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Grease the Dish: Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted salted butter. Spread 1/4 cup brown sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon evenly over the bottom of the dish.
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Whip the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the heavy cream and vanilla, mixing until the filling is fluffy and well combined.
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Prepare the Bread: Take your challah bread and slice 1-inch slits at the top of each loaf to create pockets. Gently fill each pocket with the delicious cream cheese mixture.
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Soak the Bread: In a separate bowl, whisk large eggs, whole milk, vanilla, and a pinch of kosher salt together. Soak each piece of your filled bread in the egg mixture for a couple of minutes, allowing it to absorb all those lovely flavors.
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Arrange in the Dish: Snugly arrange the soaked bread in the baking dish. Pour any remaining egg mixture over the top, and then sprinkle the rest of your cinnamon sugar blend from earlier on top of everything.
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Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time allows. This step helps the bread soak in all those creamy flavors!
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Preheat & Make Topping: Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, mix together 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, flour, and softened salted butter to create a crumbly topping. Sprinkle it generously over the soaked bread.
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Bake: Bake the French toast covered with aluminum foil for 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until it’s golden brown and a little crunchy on top.
Optional: Serve warm with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast are perfect for busy mornings! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, making your brunch planning a breeze. Simply follow the recipe instructions until you’ve arranged the soaked bread in the baking dish and let it chill in the fridge overnight to absorb all those delicious flavors. To maintain its quality, keep it tightly covered to prevent any drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just sprinkle on the cinnamon crunch topping and pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F. In no time, you’ll have a luxurious brunch treat that’s just as delightful as if you had made it fresh!
What to Serve with Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast?
Pair this delightful French toast with scrumptious sides that will transform your meal into an extraordinary brunch experience.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and brightness, perfectly complementing the richness of the French toast. Their natural sweetness balances the creamy filling beautifully.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle on pure maple syrup for a classic touch that enhances the dish’s sweetness. The warm syrup seeps into the crunch topping, creating an irresistible blend of flavors.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop of homemade whipped cream creates a decadent contrast to the crunchy top, enriching each bite. This creamy addition makes your brunch feel like a special occasion!
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Sautéed Apples: Lightly sautéed with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar, these tender apples bring warmth and a hint of caramel flavor, providing a delicious seasonal twist.
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Savory Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links offer a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the French toast. The savory elements add depth, turning your meal into a beautiful blend of flavors.
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Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage to enhance the cozy brunch vibe. A rich cup of coffee or a soothing tea complements the sweet and creamy notes of the French toast perfectly.
Indulging in these pairings elevates the experience of enjoying Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast, making it an occasion to remember!
Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this delicious dish with these fun ideas!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use a dairy-free milk alternative to keep it creamy.
- Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cream cheese filling for an added crunch and flavor boost.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix chocolate chips into the cream cheese filling for a decadent twist that will please any sweet tooth.
- Fruit Fusion: Add dried cranberries or blueberries to the filling for bursts of fruity goodness in every bite.
- Cinnamon Roll Upgrade: Swirl in cinnamon and sugar in the cream cheese filling to create a warm, gooey cinnamon roll effect.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the custard for a surprising heat beneath the sweetness.
- Maple Crunch: Replace brown sugar in the topping with crushed maple-flavored granola for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Tropical Twist: Use coconut milk instead of whole milk and add shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical vibe.
Storage Tips for Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, do not leave Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain its delightful crunch and warm center.
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Freezer: You can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: For the best results, reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore texture and flavor.
Expert Tips for Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast
- Overnight Soaking: Allowing the bread to soak overnight enhances flavor absorption and results in a creamier texture. Don’t skip this step!
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and heavy cream are at room temperature for easier whipping and blending with the filling.
- Avoid Soggy Bread: For best results, use day-old challah or brioche, as fresh bread can become too soggy during soaking.
- Preheat Properly: Always preheat your oven fully to ensure even baking and achieve that golden crust on the Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize the filling! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits can elevate the flavor and make it even more personal.
Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast?
I recommend using day-old challah bread for the best results. Its soft interior and crispy exterior create the perfect texture for French toast. Brioche is also a great substitute if you can’t find challah.
How should I store leftovers of Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain that delightful crunch, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Can I freeze Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best results.
What should I do if my French toast is soggy?
If you find that your French toast turns out soggy, it may be because the bread was too fresh or soaked for too long. For a better texture, ensure you use day-old bread and soak it in the egg mixture for just a couple of minutes, allowing it to absorb without becoming oversaturated.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re accommodating allergies or dietary preferences, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone, use dairy-free milk, and make sure the bread is free from any allergens. Always check labels if you’re unsure!
How long should I let the soaked bread chill before baking?
For the best flavor and texture, cover the dish and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the flavors of the filling fully, resulting in a deliciously creamy delight.
Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast Recipe FAQs
Baked Cinnamon Crunch French Toast That Will Wow Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with melted salted butter. Spread 1/4 cup brown sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Add in the heavy cream and vanilla, mixing until fluffy.
- Slice 1-inch slits at the top of each loaf of challah bread to create pockets, and fill each pocket with the cream cheese mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk large eggs, whole milk, vanilla, and a pinch of kosher salt. Soak each piece of your filled bread in the egg mixture for a couple of minutes.
- Arrange the soaked bread snugly in the baking dish. Pour any remaining egg mixture over the top, and sprinkle the rest of your cinnamon sugar blend on top.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and softened butter to create a crumbly topping. Sprinkle it over the soaked bread.
- Bake the French toast covered with aluminum foil for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crunchy.