Description
This Cinnamon Maple Brioche Bread Bake is a warm, comforting breakfast or brunch dish that combines rich brioche bread with a sweet and spiced custard made from eggs, milk, maple syrup, and fragrant spices. Soft and fluffy inside with a golden, caramelized top, it offers the perfect balance of cinnamon warmth and maple sweetness, ideal for a cozy morning meal.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche bread (about 12–14 slices)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Mix custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Arrange brioche: Lay the brioche slices in the prepared baking dish, overlapping slightly to ensure even coverage and absorption of the custard.
- Pour custard over brioche: Evenly pour the egg mixture over the brioche slices, pressing down gently to allow the bread to soak up the liquid thoroughly.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors meld and the bread fully absorb the custard.
- Bring to room temperature: Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to come closer to room temperature for even baking.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns a golden brown and the custard is set in the center.
- Cool and serve: Allow the bread bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Using brioche bread enhances the richness and texture; you can substitute with challah or white bread if needed.
- For more intense flavor, soak the bread overnight in the custard mixture.
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
- Serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of extra maple syrup if desired.
- Make sure not to overbake to keep the center soft and custardy.