Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maple Raisin French Toast Bake?
It is an exquisite twist on traditional bread pudding that combines raisin bread with a creamy custard base, seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, this is a make-ahead recipe designed to be refrigerated overnight so the bread can fully soak up the custard.
What kind of bread should I use?
The recipe calls for 12 ounces of raisin bread torn into 3/4 inch pieces.
How many eggs are required for the custard?
You will need 7 large eggs, beaten, for the custard base.
What size baking dish is recommended?
An 11x7x2-inch glass baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, you can use either whole milk or 2% milk for this bake.
What spices give this dish its flavor?
The dish is seasoned with vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 3/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
How long does the bread need to soak?
The bread should be covered and refrigerated overnight to allow it to properly absorb the egg mixture.
Do I need to preheat the oven before taking the dish out of the fridge?
No, the instructions specify placing the covered baking dish into a cold oven and then setting it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long is the initial baking time?
The dish should bake covered with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes.
When do I remove the aluminum foil?
Remove the foil after the initial 30 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown.
How much longer does it bake after removing the foil?
It needs an additional 35 minutes of baking time once the foil is removed.
How can I tell when the French toast bake is finished?
The pudding is done when it is puffed and golden brown.
What toppings are suggested for serving?
It is best served with a sprinkle of toasted pecans and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 333 calories per serving of this French toast bake.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 17 grams of fat.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving provides about 10 grams of protein.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 42 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for a brunch gathering?
Yes, it is specifically described as a perfect, hassle-free centerpiece for a Sunday brunch.
Can I use ground nutmeg instead of fresh?
Yes, the recipe allows for either freshly grated whole nutmeg or ground nutmeg.
What is the preparation for the pecans?
The pecans should be chopped and toasted before being sprinkled on the dish.
Should I grease the baking dish?
Yes, you should grease the glass baking dish with butter before adding the bread.
How much sugar is in the custard recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of sugar.
Is this a difficult recipe to make?
No, this recipe is tagged as easy and family-friendly.
Why should I press down on the bread?
Pressing down with a spatula ensures that every piece of bread is moistened by the egg mixture.
What category of food does this fall into?
This dish is categorized as a dessert, brunch item, and a type of bread pudding.
Does the recipe use vanilla?
Yes, it uses 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for flavor.
How much milk is used?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of milk.
Can I serve this cold?
While it can be eaten at various temperatures, the recipe recommends serving it while still slightly warm with warm syrup.
How do I prepare the bread pieces?
The 12 ounces of raisin bread should be torn into pieces roughly 3/4 inch in size.