Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe

Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe

This Paula Deen Baked French Toast is rich, custardy, and topped with a bubbling caramel glaze that soaks into every bite of buttery bread. It’s a true make-ahead breakfast classic: prep it the night before, then bake it fresh in the morning for a soft-on-the-inside, golden-on-top masterpiece. Perfect for holidays, brunch parties, or slow weekend mornings when you want something indulgent without the morning fuss.

Paula Deen Baked French Toast Ingredients

  • 1 (1 lb) loaf French bread, sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1½ cups half-and-half cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter
  • 1⅓ cups brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp light corn syrup

How To Make Paula Deen Baked French Toast

  1. Assemble the base: Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the bread slices in a single, snug layer.
  2. Mix the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, half-and-half, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
  3. Soak the bread: Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices. Press gently to help it soak in. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Make the caramel topping: The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Bring to a bubble, then remove from heat.
  5. Top and bake: Pour the hot caramel over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
  6. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes, then serve with fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe
Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • Why refrigerate overnight?
    Letting the bread soak fully in the custard gives you a more even, tender texture throughout — not dry in the middle.
  • Can I use other types of bread?
    Yes! Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work wonderfully. Just avoid thin sandwich bread, which may fall apart.
  • How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
    Use slightly stale bread, and don’t overcrowd the pan — both help create a good bake.
  • Can I prep the caramel ahead too?
    Yes — just store it in the fridge overnight and warm it slightly before pouring over in the morning.

What To Serve With Paula Deen Baked French Toast

To round out your breakfast table:

  • Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage – salty and savoury against the sweetness
  • Fresh fruit or citrus salad – balances the richness
  • Coffee or chai – something warm and spiced to sip alongside

How To Store Paula Deen Baked French Toast

  • Refrigerate: Leftovers keep well covered in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
  • Freeze: Once baked and cooled, wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven until hot throughout.

Paula Deen Baked French Toast Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving – based on 12 servings)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Fat: ~24g
  • Carbs: ~45g
  • Protein: ~9g
  • Sugar: ~25g
    Varies by bread type and additional toppings.

FAQs

Can I bake it right away instead of overnight?

You can, but it won’t soak as deeply. Let it rest at least 30 minutes at room temperature if short on time.

Can I skip the corn syrup?

Yes — substitute honey or maple syrup if you prefer. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Does the caramel harden after baking?

No — it stays soft and saucy, soaking into the bread and creating that signature sticky base.

Can I use plant-based milk or cream?

Yes — oat milk and coconut cream are good substitutes, though texture and flavour will vary slightly.

Try More Recipes:

Paula Deen Baked French Toast Recipe

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 15 minutesCook time: 40 minutesRest time: minutesTotal time:1 hour 5 minutesCooking Temp:100 CServings:12 servingsEstimated Cost:25 $Calories:420 kcal Best Season:Available

Description

A rich and custardy baked French toast, soaked overnight and topped with bubbling caramel sauce — indulgent, golden, and perfect for make-ahead brunches.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Butter a 9×13″ baking dish and layer in bread slices.
  2. Whisk eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon.
  3. Pour custard over bread; cover and refrigerate overnight.
  4. Preheat oven to 350°F. Heat butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup until bubbling.
  5. Pour caramel over soaked bread.
  6. Bake uncovered 40 minutes until golden and puffed.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best custard absorption.
  • Press bread gently into custard to help it soak evenly.
  • You can make the caramel topping ahead and warm it before baking.
  • Tent with foil if it browns too quickly in your oven.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *