Imagine transforming ordinary French bread into a decadent, mouthwatering breakfast experience that will make your family jump out of bed with excitement! This French Toast Stick Bread Pudding is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the classic comfort of French toast with the rich, custardy goodness of bread pudding. Perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or when you simply want to elevate your morning meal from mundane to extraordinary, this recipe promises to be a game-changer in your breakfast repertoire.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into sticks
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your French Toast Stick Bread Pudding bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the pudding from sticking to the dish.
- Cut the French bread into sticks, approximately 1 inch wide. You should have enough pieces to fill the baking dish. If the bread is a day or two old, it will absorb the custard mixture better.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them together until well combined. This will help to create a smooth custard base.
- Add the 2 cups of milk to the eggs and continue whisking until the mixture is fully blended.
- Incorporate the 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon into the egg and milk mixture. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well mixed.
- Place the cut French bread sticks into the greased baking dish. Make sure they are evenly distributed and not overcrowded.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread sticks, ensuring that all pieces are soaked. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the custard.
- Let the bread soak in the mixture for about 10 minutes. This allows the bread to absorb the custard and ensures a moist pudding.
- After soaking, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the pudding set further.
- Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup for added sweetness and flavor. Enjoy your delicious French Toast Stick Bread Pudding!
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use slightly stale French bread for the best absorption of the custard mixture. Day-old bread works perfectly and prevents a soggy result.
- Even Soaking is Key: Take your time when pouring the custard over the bread sticks. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor and texture.
- Don't Overbake: Watch your pudding carefully in the last 5-10 minutes of baking. A golden-brown top is what you're looking for, but you want to avoid drying out the pudding.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, fresh berries, or a sprinkle of nutmeg to make the recipe your own.
- Serving Suggestion: While warm maple syrup is classic, try topping with a dollop of whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the pudding the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 125mg
