Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large loaf of Brioche or Challah bread, sliced 1-inch thick
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Cinnamon Swirl:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation and Oven Setup. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 13×18-inch rimmed baking sheet with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Ensure the entire surface and the sides are coated to prevent the sugar from sticking. Arrange the thick slices of brioche on the pan in a single layer, slightly overlapping them if necessary to fit the whole loaf.
- Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until completely smooth. Slowly pour this mixture over the bread slices on the sheet pan. Use a spatula or your fingers to gently press down on the bread, ensuring each piece absorbs the custard. Let it sit for about 5 minutes so the bread gets fully saturated.
- Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl. In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and one tablespoon of cinnamon until it forms a thick paste. Drizzle this mixture across the top of the soaked bread. Use a knife or a skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the custard-soaked bread, mimicking the look of a classic cinnamon roll.
- Step 4: Baking to Perfection. Place the sheet pan in the center rack of the oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed up, golden brown, and the cinnamon sugar is bubbling. The edges should be slightly crisp while the center remains tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the glaze.
- Step 5: Mix the Cream Cheese Glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using a whisk or hand mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the glaze is smooth and pourable. If it is too thick, add another splash of milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Step 6: Glaze and Serve. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm French toast while it is still on the pan. You can use a zigzag pattern for a beautiful presentation. Serve immediately while warm, perhaps with a side of fresh berries or crispy bacon to balance the sweetness.
- Cook Time: 40 minutes