BAKED FRENCH TOAST

Wondering what to make for brunch this Easter? Why not try a Baked French Toast. This recipe is so delicious and has been approved my hundreds of mouths. I know your family and friends will be raving over this dish. The best part: it's really easy to make. The added bonus: this dish needs to be made the night before so all you have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning and serve.

BAKED APPLE FRENCH TOAST

Preheat over to 350ºF

12 eggs
2 cups milk
2 tbs vanilla extract
1-2 medium baking apples (other options: pears, peaches, or any type of berry)
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup light brown sugar
1 tbs water
8-10 slices white breat (other options: sourdough, brioche, cinnamon raisin)
cinnamon sugar
optional: pecans
Spray Grease a 9x13" baking pan

1. Combine butter, brown sugar and water in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave 10-20 seconds then stir to combine until smooth. Pour into bottom of sprayed baking dish.

2. Thinly slice unpeeled apples and place evenly on top of brown sugar mixture.

3. Cut bread slices in half and place them overlapping on top of apples. Slices should overlap like roof shingles. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the dish.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs. Pour in milk + vanilla and whisk to combine.

5. Pour liquid mixture into the baking dish over the bread until all of the bread is covered and soaking.

6. Cover and refrigerate. Note: Best to make the night before serving so the bread has time to absorb the eggs/milk.

7. Just before baking, sprinkle with cinnamon + sugar (pecans sprinkled on top are optional too). Bake at  350ºF for 40-60 minutes until golden. The best way to check if it's done: stick a knife inside and check to see that it's cooked all of the way thru (no egg liquid).

{This recipe comes from my time working at the Inn at Playa Del Rey. Photos by Julia Ferguson of Room for Dessert}