Ingredients:

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk (360 ml)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (120 ml)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g)
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (30 ml)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (5 ml)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (1 ml)
  • Pinch of salt (1g)
  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound/450g) challah, brioche, or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (57g)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
  • Fresh berries, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl until well combined.
  2. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring they are all moistened. Gently press down on the bread to submerge.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Remove the plastic wrap and drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the bread. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown and the custard is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  7. Let the French toast cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (if desired) and top with fresh berries.