Sheet Pan French Toast: Easy Recipe for a Crowd

Sheet Pan French Toast: the breakfast game-changer you didn’t know you needed! Imagine waking up on a lazy Sunday morning, the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the air, and a table laden with perfectly golden, custardy French toast. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, with this recipe, that dream becomes a delicious reality, and without spending hours chained to the stove flipping individual slices.

French toast, in its essence, is a humble dish with a surprisingly rich history. Believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where it was a way to use up stale bread, it has evolved over centuries and across cultures, taking on countless variations. From “pain perdu” in France to “eggy bread” in England, the concept remains the same: transforming day-old bread into a delectable treat. But let’s be honest, making French toast for a crowd can be a real pain. That’s where the magic of sheet pan French toast comes in!

People adore French toast for its comforting flavors and satisfying texture. The crispy edges, the soft, eggy interior, and the endless possibilities for toppings – what’s not to love? This sheet pan French toast recipe takes all the best parts of classic French toast and streamlines the process, making it perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or simply a special weekend treat. It’s easy, efficient, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to say goodbye to soggy French toast and hello to breakfast bliss!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf challah bread, or brioche, cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half recommended for richness)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional toppings: fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, chocolate chips, chopped nuts

Preparing the Custard and Bread:

1. Whisk the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined and the sugar is dissolved. This custard is the heart of our French toast, so make sure it’s smooth and delicious!
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet (approximately 13×18 inches) with cooking spray or melted butter. This will prevent the French toast from sticking.
3. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly soaked. Don’t rush this step! The bread needs to absorb the custard to become wonderfully soft and flavorful. Let the excess custard drip off before placing the soaked bread slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. You might need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will steam the bread instead of baking it properly.
4. Arrange the Bread: Arrange the soaked bread slices snugly on the baking sheet. It’s okay if they touch slightly, but avoid overlapping them. We want each slice to bake evenly.
5. Drizzle with Butter: Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the soaked bread slices. This will add richness and help the French toast brown beautifully in the oven.

Baking the Sheet Pan French Toast:

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown and puffed up. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. A toothpick inserted into the center of a slice should come out mostly clean.
2. Check for Doneness: To ensure the French toast is cooked through, gently press down on a slice with a spatula. It should feel firm and springy, not soggy. If it’s still too soft, bake for a few more minutes.
3. Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the French toast cool slightly on the pan for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

Serving and Topping Suggestions:

1. Cut and Serve: Cut the sheet pan French toast into squares or rectangles. You can use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for this.
2. Add Toppings: This is where you can get creative! Serve the French toast with your favorite toppings. Here are some ideas:
   • Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are all delicious choices.
   • Maple Syrup: A classic topping that never disappoints. Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
   • Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
   • Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream is always a welcome addition.
   • Chocolate Chips: For the chocolate lovers out there!
   • Chopped Nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds add a nice crunch.
   • Fruit Compote: A homemade fruit compote is a delicious and impressive topping.
   • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
3. Enjoy Immediately: Serve the sheet pan French toast immediately while it’s still warm and delicious.

Tips and Variations:

• Bread Choice: While challah and brioche are my favorites for French toast, you can also use other types of bread, such as French bread, sourdough, or even croissants. Just be sure to adjust the soaking time accordingly, as different breads absorb the custard at different rates. Stale bread works best, as it will soak up more of the custard without becoming soggy.
• Custard Variations: Feel free to experiment with the custard mixture. You can add a splash of orange juice or lemon zest for a citrusy flavor. Or, try adding a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for a boozy kick. You can also adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet French toast, reduce the amount of sugar in the custard.
• Overnight Soak: For an even richer and more flavorful French toast, you can soak the bread in the custard overnight. Simply prepare the custard and soak the bread as directed, then cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, bake as directed. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in an incredibly moist and delicious French toast.
• Add Fruit to the Custard: You can also add chopped fruit directly to the custard mixture. Berries, bananas, or apples are all great choices. This will add extra flavor and texture to the French toast.
• Savory French Toast: For a savory twist, omit the sugar from the custard and add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Serve with a fried egg, bacon, or sausage.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk in place of the milk and heavy cream to make this recipe dairy-free. You can also use a dairy-free butter substitute.
• Freezing Instructions: Leftover French toast can be frozen for later. Let the French toast cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake the frozen French toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy.
• Preventing Soggy French Toast: The key to preventing soggy French toast is to use slightly stale bread and to not over-soak it in the custard. The bread should be moist but not dripping wet. Also, make sure your oven is properly preheated before baking.
• Baking Sheet Size: A 13×18 inch baking sheet is ideal for this recipe, but you can use a slightly smaller or larger baking sheet if needed. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. If you’re using a smaller baking sheet, you may need to bake the French toast in batches.

Troubleshooting:

• French Toast is Too Soggy: If your French toast is too soggy, it could be due to a few reasons. First, make sure you’re using slightly stale bread. Fresh bread will absorb too much custard and become soggy. Second, don’t over-soak the bread in the custard. Dip each slice briefly, just long enough to coat both sides. Finally, make sure your oven is properly preheated.
• French Toast is Too Dry: If your French toast is too dry, it could be because you’re using bread that is too dry or because you’re baking it for too long. Try using a richer bread, such as challah or brioche, and reduce the baking time. You can also drizzle a little extra melted butter over the French toast before baking.
• French Toast is Not Browning: If your French toast is not browning, it could be because your oven is not hot enough or because you’re not using enough sugar in the custard. Make sure your oven is properly preheated and increase the amount of sugar in the custard slightly. You can also broil the French toast for a minute or two at the end of baking to help it brown. Watch it carefully to prevent burning.
• French Toast is Sticking to the Pan: To prevent the French toast from sticking to the pan, make sure you grease the baking sheet thoroughly with cooking spray or melted butter. You can also line the baking sheet with parchment paper.

This sheet pan French toast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s perfect for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or any time you’re craving a delicious and easy breakfast. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Sheet Pan French Toast recipe isn’t just another breakfast option; it’s a game-changer for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, and even a delightful dessert. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting flavors of French toast but dreads the tedious process of cooking individual slices. The ease of preparation, combined with the customizable flavor profiles, makes it a winner in my book, and I’m confident it will be in yours too!

What makes this recipe so special? First, it’s incredibly efficient. Imagine preparing a whole batch of perfectly golden-brown French toast in one go, freeing you up to focus on other things – like enjoying a cup of coffee or spending quality time with your loved ones. Second, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version, or swap out the dairy milk for almond or oat milk for a vegan option. The possibilities are endless!

But the real magic lies in the flavor. The custard soaks into the bread beautifully, creating a soft and pillowy interior with a slightly crispy exterior. The cinnamon and vanilla add a warm and inviting aroma that will fill your kitchen with happiness. And the best part? You can customize the toppings to your heart’s content.

Speaking of toppings, let’s talk about some serving suggestions and variations. For a classic touch, serve your Sheet Pan French Toast with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, add a burst of freshness and color. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serving Suggestions:

* Classic: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.
* Decadent: Whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and chopped nuts.
* Fruity: Sliced bananas, peaches, or mangoes with a drizzle of honey.
* Savory-Sweet: Crispy bacon or sausage with a drizzle of maple syrup.
* Holiday Special: Cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.

Variations to Explore:

* Stuffed French Toast: Spread a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two slices of bread before soaking in the custard.
* Baked French Toast Casserole: Prepare the French toast the night before and bake it in the morning for an even easier breakfast option.
* Savory French Toast: Use herbs and spices instead of cinnamon and vanilla for a savory twist. Top with cheese, ham, or vegetables.
* French Toast Sticks: Cut the baked French toast into sticks for a fun and kid-friendly treat.
* Overnight French Toast: Prepare the sheet pan and let it sit in the fridge overnight. Bake in the morning for an even richer flavor.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of Sheet Pan French Toast!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you come up with your own unique toppings? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and I love seeing how you make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!