Immerse yourself into the festive spirit with this delightful Overnight Gingerbread French Toast recipe. It's the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and everything nice, making it the ultimate breakfast treat. This recipe involves soaking the bread in a gingerbread-spiced mixture overnight, allowing the flavors to really soak in and make your toast irresistible.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry spices that you likely already have on hand. However, molasses might not be a regular in your pantry. It's a thick syrup by-product from the processing of sugarcane or sugar beets into sugar. This ingredient is crucial for achieving that distinctive robust flavor of gingerbread. You can find it in most supermarkets, often in the baking aisle.
Key Ingredients for Overnight Gingerbread French Toast
Butter: Helps to create a rich, creamy texture.
French bread loaf: Used as the base of the dish, it soaks up the flavors well.
Milk: Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together.
Eggs: Provide structure and help to bind the ingredients.
Maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness and complements the spices.
Molasses: Gives the toast its classic gingerbread flavor.
Spices (cinnamon, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, cloves): These are the warming spices that give gingerbread its classic flavor.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Confectioners' sugar: Used for dusting over the toast for additional sweetness.
One reader, Giralda Perea says:
This overnight gingerbread French toast recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates a warm, comforting flavor, and the overnight prep makes mornings a breeze. The aroma alone is worth it. It's a hit with my family and a new holiday tradition. Highly recommended!
Mastering the Art of Overnight French Toast
How to prepare the bread: Slicing the French bread loaf into even slices will ensure that the French toast cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious gingerbread flavors.
How to mix the milk and egg mixture: Whisking the milk, eggs, maple syrup, molasses, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt together until well combined will ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed and the bread is thoroughly soaked.
How to baste the bread slices: Gently spooning the excess liquid over the bread slices before baking will help to ensure that the French toast is moist and flavorful.
How to dust with confectioners' sugar: Sprinkling the confectioners' sugar lightly and evenly over the baked French toast will add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
How To Make Overnight Gingerbread French Toast
Start your day right with a plate of spiced gingerbread french toast! It’s sweetened with maple syrup and baked in flavorful spices for a richer dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupbutter
- 1French bread loaf,cut into ¾-inch slices
- ½cupmilk,or as needed
- 3eggs
- ¼cupmaple syrup
- ¼cupmolasses
- 1tspground cinnamon
- 1tspground allspice
- 1tspground ginger
- ½tspground nutmeg
- ½tspground cloves
- pinchsalt,or to taste
- 2tbspconfectioners’ sugar,for dusting, or to taste
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, remove from heat, then allow to cool to room temperature.
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Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with aluminum foil and spray the pan lightly with cooking spray.
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Arrange the bread slices in a baking dish, either flat and tightly fit together, or standing at an angle and slightly overlapping, if necessary.
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Whisk the milk, eggs, maple syrup, molasses, cinnamon, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt together in a bowl. Mix in the melted butter.
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Pour the milk and egg mixture over the bread, turning to ensure slices are evenly moistened on both sides.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator, uncover, and baste the bread slices with any excess liquid in the pan.
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Bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the slices are firm and golden brown. Remove the baking dish from the oven, then allow to rest for 10 minutes.
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Dust with confectioners’ sugar, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 336.53kcal
- Fat: 11.74g
- Saturated Fat: 6.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.32g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.19g
- Carbohydrates: 50.03g
- Fiber: 1.54g
- Sugar: 24.49g
- Protein: 8.89g
- Cholesterol: 102.35mg
- Sodium: 349.02mg
- Calcium: 113.71mg
- Potassium: 362.29mg
- Iron: 3.16mg
- Vitamin A: 108.63µg
- Vitamin C: 0.15mg
Elevate Your French Toast Game with This Technique
To ensure that your French toast is moist and flavorful, it's crucial to let the bread fully soak up the egg and milk mixture. Don't rush this step - the longer you let the bread soak, the more flavor it will absorb. This is why this recipe recommends refrigerating the dish overnight. However, if you're short on time, a minimum of one hour will do. Just make sure to flip the bread slices halfway through the soaking time to ensure even absorption.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Gingerbread French Toast
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and measuring tools before starting to save time and make the process smoother.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the liquid ingredients for the gingerbread French toast, saving time and effort.
Pre-slice the bread: Pre-slice the French bread loaf the night before and store it in an airtight container to save time in the morning.
Double the recipe: Make a double batch of the gingerbread French toast and freeze the extra slices for a quick and convenient breakfast option.
Set up a station: Set up a designated cooking station with all the necessary tools and ingredients to streamline the preparation process.
Prep the night before: Prepare the gingerbread French toast the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator, allowing for a quick and easy breakfast the next morning.
Substitute Ingredients For Overnight Gingerbread French Toast Recipe
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the dish, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
french bread loaf - Substitute with challah bread: Challah bread has a similar texture and density to French bread, and its slightly sweet flavor can complement the gingerbread spices.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can add a nutty flavor and creaminess to the dish, while also making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg): Flax eggs can act as a binding agent and provide moisture to the dish, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar level of sweetness and a hint of floral flavor to the dish, complementing the gingerbread spices.
molasses - Substitute with dark corn syrup: Dark corn syrup can provide a similar depth of flavor and sweetness to the dish, while also adding a rich, caramel-like taste.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice contains cinnamon along with other warm spices, adding complexity to the dish and enhancing the gingerbread flavor.
ground allspice - Substitute with ground cloves: Ground cloves can provide a similar warm and slightly peppery flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall spiciness.
ground ginger - Substitute with ground cardamom: Ground cardamom can add a citrusy, herbal note to the dish, complementing the other spices and adding depth of flavor.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground mace: Ground mace has a similar warm, nutty flavor to nutmeg, making it a suitable substitute in the gingerbread French toast recipe.
ground cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice can provide a similar warm and slightly peppery flavor to the dish, complementing the other spices and adding complexity.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with maple sugar: Maple sugar can add a similar level of sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
Presenting Your Overnight French Toast Masterpiece
- Elevate the French toast: Carefully arrange the French toast slices on a fine bone china plate, ensuring they are neatly stacked or fanned out for an elegant presentation.
- Garnish with fresh berries: Place a handful of plump, ripe strawberries and blueberries on top of the French toast to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Drizzle with maple syrup: Artfully drizzle a generous amount of rich, amber-colored maple syrup over the French toast, creating a visually appealing pattern on the plate.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar: Using a fine mesh sieve, delicately dust the French toast with a light sprinkling of confectioners' sugar to add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finishing touch.
- Accompany with whipped cream: Serve the French toast with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side, adding a luxurious and indulgent element to the dish.
- Add a sprig of fresh mint: Place a small, vibrant sprig of mint on the plate as a garnish, adding a pop of green color and a hint of refreshing aroma to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Gingerbread French Toast
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, typically used for boiling, simmering, and making sauces.
- Baking dish: A baking dish is a deep, oven-safe dish used for baking various dishes such as casseroles, desserts, and more.
- Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is a thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping, covering, and lining dishes during cooking and storage.
- Cooking spray: Cooking spray is a non-stick spray used to coat baking dishes and pans to prevent food from sticking during cooking or baking.
- Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together, typically made of metal loops attached to a handle.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is a deep, round bowl used for combining and mixing ingredients, often made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
- Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food, typically with adjustable temperature settings.
- Food processor: A food processor is an electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients with various attachments.
- Measuring cup: A measuring cup is a kitchen tool used to measure liquid or dry ingredients accurately, typically available in various sizes.
- Confectioners' sugar shaker: A confectioners' sugar shaker is a tool used for dusting confectioners' sugar evenly over dishes and desserts.
Preserving the Magic: Storing and Freezing Gingerbread French Toast
- Let the french toast cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the fridge, place the cooled french toast in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, wrap each slice of french toast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents. Frozen french toast will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat refrigerated french toast, place the slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- To reheat frozen french toast, you can either:
- Place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave the frozen slices on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Note that microwaving may result in a softer texture compared to oven reheating.
- For best results, consume the reheated french toast immediately, as it may become soggy if left to sit for too long.
Reviving Leftover Gingerbread French Toast
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover gingerbread french toast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the toast from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help maintain the texture and moisture of the toast.
For a quicker option, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the french toast slices directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Keep an eye on the toast to ensure it doesn't burn.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat the gingerbread french toast in a skillet or griddle. Melt a small amount of butter over medium heat. Place the toast slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
For a moist and tender result, use the microwave. Place the leftover french toast on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help prevent the toast from drying out.
To add a fresh twist, cut the leftover gingerbread french toast into bite-sized cubes and create a delightful breakfast parfait. Layer the cubes with yogurt, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a tasty and visually appealing treat.
A Surprising Fact About Overnight Gingerbread French Toast
The gingerbread in this recipe is a traditional holiday flavor, often associated with Christmas and festive celebrations. It's a warm and comforting spice that adds a delightful aroma and taste to the French toast, making it a perfect dish for a cozy winter morning.
Budget-Friendly Gingerbread French Toast: Is It Possible?
This overnight gingerbread French toast recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as bread, eggs, milk, and spices, are commonly found in most kitchens. The use of maple syrup and molasses adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10. The rich flavors and the convenience of preparing it the night before make it a solid choice for a weekend breakfast or brunch. Overall Verdict: 9.
Is This Gingerbread French Toast Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This gingerbread French toast recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:
- The use of butter and maple syrup adds significant amounts of saturated fat and sugar to the dish.
- Molasses, while providing a distinct flavor, also contributes to the overall sugar content.
- The recipe calls for a generous amount of spices, which, although beneficial in small quantities, may be overpowering and potentially irritating to some individuals' digestive systems when consumed in excess.
- The bread used in the recipe is likely made from refined flour, which lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste, consider the following modifications:
- Swap out the butter for a healthier alternative like coconut oil or avocado oil, which contain beneficial fats.
- Reduce the amount of maple syrup and molasses used, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or date syrup.
- Opt for a whole grain bread or a gluten-free alternative to increase the fiber content and make the dish more nutrient-dense.
- Incorporate some fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, to add natural sweetness and boost the nutritional value of the dish.
- Serve the French toast with a side of Greek yogurt or a protein-rich topping like chopped nuts to balance out the carbohydrates and provide a more complete meal.
Our Editor's Take on This Gingerbread French Toast Recipe
This overnight gingerbread French toast recipe is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish. The combination of maple syrup, molasses, and warm spices creates a rich and flavorful custard that infuses the bread with a cozy, comforting taste. The overnight soaking allows the flavors to meld and the bread to become tender, resulting in a decadent and satisfying breakfast treat. The final touch of confectioners' sugar adds a hint of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. This recipe is perfect for a special holiday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch.
Enhance Your Overnight Gingerbread French Toast Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Discover Delightful Alternatives to Gingerbread French Toast
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Why trust this Overnight Gingerbread French Toast Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delightful gingerbread flavor with a hint of warmth from cinnamon, allspice, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. The overnight soak ensures the French bread absorbs the rich milk, eggs, maple syrup, and molasses mixture, resulting in a luscious and moist French toast. The careful basting and baking process ensures a golden brown, firm texture. With a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar, this dish promises to be a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch.
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