Name: Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces brioche, cut into 2-inch cubes; 6 large eggs; 1/2 cup dark brown sugar; 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 cups half & half; 1/4 cup salted butter; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon gingerbread spice mix; Olive oil or coconut spray (for greasing the baking dish)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 76 reviews

If you’re dreaming of a breakfast that captures the warm, cozy flavors of the holidays and the comforting texture of a classic French toast, then you’re in for a real treat with this Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe. This dish transforms simple brioche bread, eggs, and a symphony of spices into a luscious, aromatic morning delight perfect for gatherings or just treating yourself. The blend of gingerbread spices with a rich custard soak elevates every bite, creating a beautiful one-bake wonder that feels both indulgent and homey at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the bottom left corner, there is a clear measuring jug filled with milk, and to its right, a small saucepan on a woven mat contains melted butter with yellow swirls. Above the saucepan, a pack of sliced bread with an orange and pink wrapper lays partially open. Near the center, a small glass bowl holds a packed light brown substance, likely brown sugar, and in front of it lies a white measuring spoon filled with white granulated sugar. A small glass bowl filled with cocoa powder with a silver spoon inside it sits near the top left, next to a margin of a round white bowl with a brown inside rim holding a light beige liquid. Six brown eggs rest in a simple gray carton on the left side. A dark brown bottle, possibly vanilla extract, with its cap off is near the center. In the top right, a small wooden bowl contains coarse white salt crystals, and a blue and white towel peeks from the right edge. The overall color palette is neutral with warm earthy tones, soft textures, and a calm, orderly presentation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step towards making this Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe unforgettable. Each item plays its part: from the tender, buttery brioche that forms the base, to the fragrant gingerbread spice mix that infuses every bite with seasonal cheer.

Olive oil or coconut spray: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking while adding subtle richness.
16 ounces brioche, cut into 2-inch cubes: Brioche offers a soft, airy texture perfect for soaking in the custard without falling apart.
6 large eggs: Eggs are crucial—they create the rich, fluffy custard that binds everything together.
1/2 cup dark brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that complements the gingerbread spices brilliantly.
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt: Just a pinch to balance the flavors and enhance sweetness.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Vanilla infuses warmth and depth, rounding out the spices beautifully.
2 cups half & half: This blend of milk and cream ensures your custard is decadently creamy.
1/4 cup salted butter: Butter adds richness and a golden crust when melted on top.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top to create a slightly crisp, caramelized finish.
1 tablespoon gingerbread spice mix: The star of the dish—a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove that wakes up your taste buds.

How to Make Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread

Start by greasing your baking dish thoroughly with olive oil or coconut spray to ensure none of the delightful custard sticks to the sides. Next, cut your brioche into generous 2-inch cubes—this size lets each piece soak up plenty of custard without getting mushy, creating a perfect soft yet structured texture once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Custard Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, dark brown sugar, kosher salt, vanilla extract, half & half, and the fragrant gingerbread spice mix. This combination creates a luscious custard with the perfect balance of sweetness and warming spices, ready to infuse your bread cubes with flavor.

Step 3: Soak the Brioche Cubes

Place the cubed brioche evenly in the prepared baking dish, then slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread. Press the cubes gently down to ensure they are all well coated and soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or even overnight for maximum flavor penetration.

Step 4: Add Butter and Sugar Topping

Before baking, scatter small pats of salted butter on top of the soaked bread. Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the surface to help create a golden, caramelized crust during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the casserole uncovered for about 45-50 minutes. The top should be nicely browned and crisp, while the inside remains soft and custardy. You’ll know it’s done when the edges pull slightly away from the dish, and an inserted knife comes out mostly clean.

How to Serve Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe

A white decorative plate holds a single slice of bread pudding with a golden brown, slightly crisp top layer and softer, lighter beige inside pieces. The bread pudding is sprinkled with white powdered sugar and topped with bright red pomegranate seeds that add vibrant color. A silver fork rests on the plate next to the dessert. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth partially visible at the bottom right. In the background, there is a glass jar with amber liquid and a spoon inside, and a white bowl filled with more pomegranate seeds. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe, consider sprinkling powdered sugar or dusting a bit of cinnamon on top just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and creaminess that balances the spice beautifully.

Side Dishes

This baked French toast pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit such as sliced apples, pears, or juicy berries. Nutty accompaniments like toasted pecans or walnuts also add a delightful crunch to every bite. For a savory contrast, crispy bacon or sausage make excellent companions on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve this dish straight in the baking dish and let everyone scoop their own portion, or plate individual slices topped with a sprig of fresh mint or a caramel drizzle. Using colorful serving dishes or rustic wooden trays adds charm and sets the mood for any breakfast or brunch occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can cover any leftover Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes great cold or reheated, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings.

Freezing

If you want to make this ahead even further, freeze the unbaked dish after soaking the bread in custard but before baking. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crisp on top. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the bread soggy instead of crisping back up.

FAQs

Can I use another type of bread besides brioche?

Absolutely! While brioche offers the best texture and richness for this Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe, challah or a good-quality white bread will also work well. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the custard soak without falling apart.

What is gingerbread spice mix?

Gingerbread spice mix is a warm blend typically including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and sometimes allspice. It gives the dish that classic gingerbread flavor without needing to bake an actual gingerbread cake or cookies.

Can I prepare this recipe the night before?

Yes! In fact, letting the bread soak overnight intensifies the flavors and ensures every bite is tender and delicious. Just cover it well and refrigerate before baking the next morning.

Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?

Definitely. This Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe scales up nicely for large groups, making it a fantastic choice for holiday breakfasts, brunches, or special gatherings where you want to impress but keep things easy.

Can I substitute half & half with milk?

You can, but half & half provides extra creaminess that makes the custard richer. Using whole milk is a good alternative if you want it lighter, but avoid skim milk as it may affect the dish’s texture.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for the perfect Gingerbread French Toast Bake Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive in. This recipe brings beautiful, cozy flavors to your breakfast table that are sure to become a beloved tradition. Whether for a special occasion or a treat-yourself morning, you’ll fall in love with how simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Enjoy every warm, spiced bite!