Orange French Toast Bake Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/4 cup Triple Sec or any other orange liqueur
• 1/2 fresh orange, zested and juiced
• 1 teaspoon orange extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 12 slices cinnamon raisin bread
• 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar (optional)
• 2 tablespoons warm maple syrup (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Lightly grease two large baking sheets or line them with parchment paper, then lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent the bread from sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until light in color.
3. To the eggs, add the milk, sugar, orange liqueur, orange juice, orange zest, orange extract, salt, and nutmeg. Whisk the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture, making sure to coat each slice thoroughly. Place the coated bread slices on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not overlap.
5. Bake the bread slices for about 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the baking time to ensure an even golden brown color.
6. Once baked, serve the French toast by sprinkling with confectioners' sugar and drizzling with warm maple syrup.

Cooks Notes

If you prefer, you can substitute the cinnamon raisin bread with other types of bread like brioche or challah for a richer flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	186
Total Fat	3g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	63mg
Sodium	168mg
Total Carbohydrate	34g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	17g
Protein	5g
Vitamin C	58mg
Calcium	82mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	273mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Orange French Toast Bake is a delightful breakfast dish that combines the rich flavors of cinnamon raisin bread with a tangy orange infusion. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a perfect option when hosting a large group, as it serves multiple people in one go.

History of Origin

French toast itself is an ancient dish, believed to have originated in Roman times. Its popularity grew throughout Europe, and different countries put their own spin on it. The addition of orange flavors to French toast is a more modern adaptation, likely inspired by the growing popularity of citrus fruits in European and American cooking in the 19th and 20th centuries. This particular Orange French Toast Bake likely emerged in the United States, where breakfast casseroles became a trend for their ease of preparation and ability to serve a crowd.

Regional Variations

While the base of French toast is widely recognized around the world, regional variations often reflect local ingredients and culinary traditions. For instance, in France, French toast (known as "pain perdu") is traditionally made with stale bread, eggs, and milk, and served with sugar or syrup. In the U.S., French toast has evolved into more decadent forms, such as this Orange French Toast Bake, which incorporates citrus zest, orange liqueur, and often a touch of vanilla or nutmeg. The addition of cinnamon raisin bread also reflects an American preference for spiced breads in breakfast dishes.

Distinguishing Features

Compared to classic French toast, which is fried in a pan, this Orange French Toast Bake offers a hands-off alternative. The bread is coated in a custard made from eggs, milk, sugar, and orange liqueur, then baked in the oven. This method not only allows for even cooking but also results in a crispy, golden exterior and a soft, custardy interior. The key difference is the addition of orange zest and orange juice, which imparts a bright, citrusy flavor to the dish. The use of cinnamon raisin bread also adds a sweet, spicy complexity that distinguishes it from more traditional recipes.

Where It's Typically Served

Orange French Toast Bake is often served at breakfast or brunch gatherings, particularly when hosting a larger crowd. Its easy preparation and ability to be made ahead of time make it an ideal choice for family gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or even casual weekend brunches. It's commonly accompanied by maple syrup, powdered sugar, and perhaps a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas. The dish can also be paired with a warm beverage such as coffee or fresh orange juice to complement the citrus flavor.

Interesting Facts

• French toast is believed to have originated in ancient Rome, where it was made with eggs, milk, and stale bread, similar to modern recipes.
• The use of orange liqueur, such as Triple Sec, in this recipe adds a unique twist and enhances the citrus flavor, making it a more grown-up version of traditional French toast.
• Cinnamon raisin bread is a popular choice for this dish, but other types of bread, like brioche or challah, can also be used for an even richer flavor.
• This dish is a great source of vitamin C, thanks to the addition of fresh orange juice and zest.
• The Orange French Toast Bake can be prepared the night before and refrigerated overnight, making it a convenient dish for busy mornings or holiday gatherings.

FAQ about Orange French Toast Bake Recipe