This sticky date French toast bake is a delightfully decadent breakfast dish that combines the sweetness of sticky dates with the lusciousness of French toast. It's the perfect special occasion breakfast or brunch treat that will surely impress your guests. The aromatic blend of cinnamon and vanilla in the batter, combined with the rich butterscotch sauce, make each bite a heavenly experience.
One of the key ingredients in this recipe is dates. These sweet and sticky fruits are not always a staple in every kitchen, but they are usually available in the dried fruit section of most supermarkets. They add a chewy texture and natural sweetness to the dish. If you can't find brioche loaf, a challah or any other sweet bread can be used as a substitute.
Ingredients for Sticky Date French Toast Bake
brioche: A rich and buttery French bread that's perfect for French toast due to its ability to soak up the egg batter.
dates: They add a unique sweetness and texture to the French toast.
eggs: Used in the batter to provide structure and richness to the French toast.
milk: It helps to create a smooth and creamy batter.
brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a rich, molasses flavor to the dish.
vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
cinnamon: Gives a warm and sweet spice flavor.
salt: Balances out the sweetness.
butter: Used in the butterscotch sauce for a rich and creamy flavor.
thickened cream: It gives the butterscotch sauce a thick and luscious consistency.
boiling water: Used to adjust the consistency of the butterscotch sauce.
One reader, Corene Talbott says:
This sticky date French toast bake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of brioche, dates, and butterscotch sauce is pure indulgence. The flavors are rich and comforting, and the texture is divine. It's a perfect treat for a cozy weekend brunch. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Sticky Date French Toast Bake
How to prepare the casserole dish: Lightly grease a 9x11-inch casserole dish with cooking oil spray or a light coating of butter.
How to make the butterscotch sauce: Combine the sugar and butter in a medium-sized saucepan on low heat. Gradually add the cream in small amounts, stirring in between each addition, until all of the cream is in the pan. Add in the dates and allow the sauce to bubble up and froth, while still occasionally stirring. After about 8 minutes, the sauce should be thickened, and the dates will be soft. Take off the heat and allow to cool slightly. Pour in 1 tablespoon of boiling water at a time (whisking after each addition) until reaching your desired consistency.
How To Make Sticky Date French Toast Bake
Prepare this sticky date french toast bake on the day before or the morning of Christmas for a fruity and decadent breakfast meal for the whole family.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1loafBrioche
- ¾cuppitted dates(roughly chopped)
- 4pcslarge eggs
- 2½cupsmilk(low fat or full cream, or almond milk)
- ⅓cupbrown sugar(or coconut sugar)
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- 1tspground cinnamon(optional)
- ¼tspsalt
- 1cupbrown sugar
- 3tbspbutteror spread of choice
- 150mlthickened cream(heavy cream or coconut cream)
- ¼cuppitted dates(roughly chopped)
- ¼cupboiling water(optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 390 degrees F.
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Lightly grease a 9×11-inch casserole dish with cooking oil spray or a light coating of butter. Place the bread slices into the dish, and arrange the dates all around, under, and in between the bread slices.
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Whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt until frothy and well combined.
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Pour the egg wash over the bread and press the bread lightly into the egg wash to evenly coat.
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Bake in the preheated oven until cooked through and golden on top for about 40 to 45 minutes.
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Combine the sugar and butter in a medium-sized saucepan on low heat. Occasionally stir until the brown sugar has melted through the butter.
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When the mixture is hot and steaming, gradually add the cream in small amounts, stirring in between each addition, until all of the creams is in the pan.
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Add in the dates and allow the sauce to bubble up and froth, while still occasionally stirring. After about 8 minutes the sauce should be thickened and the dates will be soft.
-
Take off heat and allow to cool slightly. Pour in 1 tablespoon of boiling water at a time (whisking after each addition), until reaching your desired consistency.
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Serve a slice with a drizzle of butterscotch and softened date pieces!
Nutrition
- Calories: 468.17kcal
- Fat: 13.19g
- Saturated Fat: 6.13g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.47g
- Carbohydrates: 77.67g
- Fiber: 3.44g
- Sugar: 47.26g
- Protein: 11.86g
- Cholesterol: 144.05mg
- Sodium: 377.35mg
- Calcium: 199.54mg
- Potassium: 436.27mg
- Iron: 2.74mg
- Vitamin A: 155.46µg
- Vitamin C: 0.02mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Sticky Date French Toast Bake
When preparing the brioche for the French toast bake, it's important to let it sit out for a few hours or even overnight to become slightly stale. This will help the bread absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. If you're in a hurry, you can also lightly toast the bread to achieve a similar effect. Additionally, when making the butterscotch sauce, be sure to add the cream slowly and stir constantly to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming grainy.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the egg wash and butterscotch sauce the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time in the morning.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the dates quickly and evenly for the butterscotch sauce.
Bake in advance: You can bake the French toast bake a day ahead and reheat it in the oven before serving. This will save time on the day of serving.
Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, organize all the ingredients and equipment you need. This will help you work more efficiently.
Multi-task: While the French toast bake is in the oven, use that time to prepare other elements of your meal or set the table.
Substitute Ingredients For Sticky Date French Toast Bake Recipe
brioche - Substitute with challah bread: Challah bread has a similar rich and eggy texture, making it a great substitute for brioche in this recipe.
dates - Substitute with dried figs: Dried figs have a similar sweet and chewy texture, and they can provide a delicious alternative to dates in this recipe.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg): Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs, providing binding and moisture to the dish.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a nutty flavor to the dish.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a sweet and aromatic flavor similar to vanilla extract.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the recipe.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.
thickened cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a rich and creamy texture, serving as a dairy-free alternative to thickened cream.
boiling water - Substitute with hot apple cider: Hot apple cider can add a fruity and aromatic element to the recipe, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Presenting Your Sticky Date French Toast Bake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sticky date French toast bake, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use edible flowers and gold leaf to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a contrast of textures to the plate by including a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This will provide a delightful contrast to the soft and warm French toast bake.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon powder over the top of the French toast bake to add a pop of color and a hint of aromatic flavor. This will enhance the overall presentation and provide a sensory experience for the judges.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the French toast bake to be the focal point. Use a minimalist approach to plating, ensuring that the dish remains the star of the show.
Create a drizzle design: Use a small squeeze bottle to create an artistic drizzle of the butterscotch sauce around the edge of the plate. This will add a touch of finesse and artistry to the presentation, showcasing attention to detail and culinary skill.
Essential Tools for Making French Toast Bake
- Loaf pan: A loaf pan is used to bake the French toast bake and helps in shaping the dish.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and other ingredients for the egg wash.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is used to make the butterscotch sauce by melting the sugar and butter and simmering the cream and dates.
- Oven: The oven is used to bake the French toast bake until it is cooked through and golden on top.
- Cooking oil spray or butter: Cooking oil spray or butter is used to grease the casserole dish to prevent the French toast bake from sticking.
- Knife: A knife is used to slice the brioche loaf and to pit the dates.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure the ingredients for the French toast bake and the butterscotch sauce.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to whisk together the ingredients for the egg wash.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to combine the ingredients for the egg wash until frothy and well combined.
- Spatula: A spatula can be used to press the bread lightly into the egg wash to evenly coat.
- Stove: The stove is used to heat the saucepan and make the butterscotch sauce.
- Casserole dish: A casserole dish is used to bake the French toast bake in the oven.
Storing and Freezing Your French Toast Bake
- Let the french toast bake cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, wrap the cooled french toast bake tightly with plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to reheat, thaw the french toast bake in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- If reheating individual portions, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking.
- For best results, prepare the butterscotch sauce fresh when serving the reheated french toast bake.
How To Reheat Leftover Sticky Date French Toast Bake
To reheat leftover sticky date french toast bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and prevents the french toast from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of the sticky date french toast bake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. Be aware that microwaving may result in a slightly softer texture compared to oven reheating.
If you want to crisp up the top of your leftover french toast bake, you can use the broiler. Preheat your broiler and place the portion on a baking sheet. Broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning, until the top is golden and crispy.
For an extra indulgent treat, slice the leftover sticky date french toast bake into individual portions and heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the slices until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This method creates a deliciously caramelized exterior while warming the interior.
No matter which reheating method you choose, be sure to drizzle some warm butterscotch sauce over the top of your reheated sticky date french toast bake for an extra burst of flavor and indulgence.
Interesting Fact About Sticky Date French Toast Bake
The French toast bake is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish. It combines the rich flavors of brioche, dates, and butterscotch to create a decadent and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a special weekend brunch or a holiday breakfast. It's a great way to use up leftover bread and can be easily customized with different toppings or additions. Plus, it can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Whether you're a fan of sweet breakfasts or just looking for a new recipe to try, this sticky date French toast bake is sure to impress.
Is This French Toast Bake Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This sticky date French toast bake recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as brioche, dates, and eggs, are generally affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. However, the additional items like thickened cream and butter may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the quantity and the delightful flavors it offers, this recipe is worth a try. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it an 8 for its taste and simplicity. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a reasonable option for a special weekend breakfast or brunch.
Is Sticky Date French Toast Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sticky date French toast bake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe uses brioche, a rich bread high in butter and eggs, which adds significant amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol.
- The generous use of brown sugar and dates contributes to a high sugar content, which can lead to blood sugar spikes and increased calorie intake.
- The butterscotch sauce, made with butter, brown sugar, and cream, further adds to the dish's overall fat and sugar content.
- The recipe lacks any significant sources of fiber, protein, or nutrients that would balance out the indulgent ingredients.
However, with a few tweaks, this recipe can be made healthier without compromising on taste:
- Swap the brioche for a whole grain bread, which will increase the fiber content and provide more nutrients.
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar used in both the egg wash and the butterscotch sauce, or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey.
- Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce the overall fat content.
- Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as fresh fruits or nuts, to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Serve the French toast with a side of Greek yogurt or a protein source to balance out the meal.
Editor's Opinion on Sticky Date French Toast Bake
The sticky date French toast bake recipe is a delightful combination of rich brioche, sweet dates, and a luscious butterscotch sauce. The use of brioche adds a buttery richness to the dish, while the dates provide a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. The butterscotch sauce is a decadent addition, adding a creamy and indulgent touch to the dish. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for a special brunch or breakfast occasion. Overall, this recipe is a delightful twist on classic French toast, and it's sure to impress with its delicious flavors and comforting appeal.
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Why trust this Sticky Date French Toast Bake Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, combining the rich flavors of sticky dates and the comforting warmth of French toast. The use of brioche ensures a luxurious and tender texture, while the addition of dates infuses a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. The butterscotch sauce, made with brown sugar and cream, adds a luscious touch, elevating this dish to a truly indulgent experience. With a perfect balance of sweet and savory elements, this French toast bake promises to be a memorable addition to any brunch or breakfast spread.
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