Michelle, the founder of Now Cook This, has revealed a considerably easier approach to making French toast — cooking it in the oven instead of frying. This method eliminates the need to stand over a hob, avoids oil splatters, and ensures the bread is cooked uniformly without burning the outside or leaving the centre soggy.
Michelle said: "The first time I made French toast in the oven, I couldn't believe how easy and delicious it was. It's been my go-to ever since. And I'd be willing to bet that, once you try it, it'll become yours too!"
Why Oven-Baked French Toast Works Better
Frying French toast on the hob is time-consuming and often leads to uneven cooking. The oil can cook the exterior too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked and soggy. By baking in the oven, you can prepare a large batch at once without constant attention, freeing you to brew coffee or relax while it bakes.
The oven method also produces a pleasantly crispy texture with no risk of charring or raw centres. Plus, there is no splattered hob or burnt frying pan to scrub afterward, making cleanup much easier.
Simple Ingredients for Oven French Toast
- Eight slices of brioche bread
- Four large eggs
- 240ml of whole milk
- One teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Half a teaspoon of cinnamon
- Pinch of salt (about a quarter teaspoon)
- Butter (optional)
- Maple syrup (optional)
- Cooking spray
Step-by-Step Method
Begin by preheating the oven to 220°C (200°C for fan ovens or Gas Mark 7), then generously coat a large sheet pan tray with cooking spray.
Crack the eggs into a medium-sized bowl, then add the milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything together until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Pour the egg mixture into the tray, then arrange the bread slices in a single layer on top. Allow the bread to rest in the tray for one minute to absorb the moisture, before flipping it over. Leave them for a few minutes until all of the egg batter has been fully soaked up.
Then, transfer to the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the French toast is perfectly crispy and golden. Serve immediately straight from the oven, drizzling with butter, maple syrup or any other toppings of your choice.
