Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

Is it breakfast or dessert? It’s both! Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake is an easy prep-ahead addition to any brunch menu. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of peaches with the comforting flavors of French toast, making it perfect for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or cozy weekends. The best part? You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Minimal prep time allows you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones.
• Deliciously Versatile: You can swap out peaches for your favorite fruits, making this recipe adaptable to your tastes.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual breakfast or a festive brunch, this dish fits right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and pop it in the oven for a hassle-free morning.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A blend of sweet peaches and creamy custard that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 13×9 casserole dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole Dish: The right size ensures even cooking and provides plenty of space for all the ingredients.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate ingredients easily, making mixing simpler.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps incorporate air into your egg mixture, giving the bake a light texture.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 10 oz challah or French bread, cut into large chunks
• 24 ounces frozen sliced peaches, thawed and drained (or use any fruit you want)
• 1 1/4 cups almond milk
• 5 eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp light butter
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

How to Make Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

Step 1: Grease the Casserole Dish

Grease a 13×9 casserole dish with cooking spray. Lay your bread pieces evenly over the bottom of the dish.

Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Beat together eggs and sugar until well mixed.
2. Add almond milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt.
3. Continue to beat until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Egg Mixture

Pour the egg mixture over the bread pieces in the casserole dish. Gently push down on the bread with your hands to ensure all pieces are covered in the mixture.

Step 4: Refrigerate

Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least a few hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Take the casserole out of the refrigerator and let sit at room temperature.

Step 6: Add Peaches

Place thawed peaches evenly over on top of the soaked bread.

Step 7: Make Streusel Topping

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together flour, brown sugar, light butter, and ground cinnamon using your fingers until crumbly.
2. Sprinkle this streusel evenly over the peaches.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for 45-60 minutes or until golden brown on top and set in the center. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for brunch or as a sweet dessert, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, making each bite even more indulgent.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Pouring warm maple syrup over the bake enhances its sweetness, giving it that classic breakfast feel.

Topped with Fresh Peaches

• Fresh peach slices on top not only improve presentation but also add a burst of fresh flavor.

Served with Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert twist, serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Accompanied by Greek Yogurt

• A side of Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast and adds protein to your meal, making it healthier.

How to Perfect Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

Achieving the perfect Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake requires a few simple techniques. Here are some tips for success:

• Use stale bread: Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.

• Chill overnight: Letting the casserole sit in the refrigerator overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Don’t skip the streusel: The crunchy topping adds texture and an extra layer of flavor that complements the soft bread.

• Check for doneness: Make sure the center is set and not jiggly before taking it out of the oven; this ensures even cooking throughout.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

Pairing Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links provide a salty contrast to the sweetness of the bake.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits refreshes your palate and adds color to your plate.

3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and balance out the sweetness of the casserole.

4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns bring crunchiness and heartiness, making for a satisfying brunch spread.

5. Smoothie: A refreshing smoothie can cleanse your palate while providing additional nutrients.

6. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea enhances any brunch experience with its comforting warmth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Neglecting the Bread Type: Using the wrong kind of bread can result in a soggy texture. Opt for challah or French bread for the best flavor and structure.
• Skipping Refrigeration: Not letting the mixture soak overnight can lead to unevenly cooked bread. Always refrigerate for at least a few hours.
• Overloading on Toppings: Adding too many toppings can overwhelm the dish. Stick to a streusel topping for balance.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can undercook or overcook your bake. Preheat your oven properly to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Not Letting It Cool: Cutting too soon after baking can result in sloppy servings. Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
• Ensure you remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake.

Can I use fresh peaches instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh peaches! Just slice them thinly and ensure they are ripe.

How do I customize my Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake?

Feel free to add nuts, spices, or other fruits like berries or apples to suit your taste!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight.

What should I serve with my Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake?

Consider pairing it with whipped cream, maple syrup, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake is a delightful dish that blends the comfort of breakfast with dessert flavors. Its easy preparation makes it ideal for brunch gatherings. You can customize it with different fruits or toppings, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!