Glazed Pear French Toast For a Crowd

French toast has a special place in our hearts, invoking memories of family reunions and the comforting aroma of cinnamon and honey. Recreate those cherished moments with a simple and healthy French toast casserole that’s perfect for large groups. This light and fluffy recipe, with 24 servings, requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings.

Is French Toast Good for Large Groups?

Absolutely! This recipe is a home run for both kids and adults. With 24 servings and 36 slices of bread, it pairs seamlessly with other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, coffee, and juice. The best part? It’s baked in the oven, eliminating messy stovetop cleanup.

Is the Recipe Hard to Make?

Not at all! This French toast is a breeze to prepare, taking just an hour from start to finish. To make things even more convenient, you can assemble the casserole the night before, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. All you need are basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk, and a spatula.

Is French Toast Healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe takes a healthier spin on traditional French toast by omitting white sugar, flour, and butter. Instead, it incorporates nutritious ingredients like almond milk, monk fruit sweetener, and whole-grain bread. With a delightful addition of fresh pears, this French toast is both satisfying and guilt-free.

What Is the Best Bread to Use?

Customize this recipe to your liking by choosing your preferred bread. For a lighter version, opt for Sara Lee Delightful Multi-Grain Bread. If you prefer a crispier texture, consider using challah, sourdough, or French bread. Gluten-free bread is also a suitable option.

What Kind of Milk Should Be Used?

While almond milk is used in this version, feel free to substitute it with regular dairy milk, coconut, cashew, or oat milk according to your preference.

What Type of Sweetener Should You Use?

The recipe uses monk fruit sweetener and honey for a healthier alternative. However, you can also choose from options like white sugar, brown sugar, Stevia, Splenda, maple syrup, or agave.

Can You Prepare French Toast in Advance?

Absolutely! Prepare the French toast the night before and store it in the fridge. Just ensure you use a firmer bread to prevent sogginess. This makes the baking process even more straightforward on the day of your event.

How Can You Keep It Warm?

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit and keep the French toast inside until you’re ready to serve. This ensures it stays warm and delightful.

What Can You Use for Toppings?

Get creative with toppings! Try plain Greek yogurt, honey, bananas, berries, or stick to traditional choices like maple syrup, butter, or peanut butter. Pair it with eggs, bacon, or orange juice for a complete meal.

Can You Keep Leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, and if desired, freeze in a vacuum-sealed bag for future use.

Recipe Instructions and Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cut 36 pieces of whole-grain bread into 1-inch squares and place them in the baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together 24 eggs, 3 cups unsweetened almond milk, 6 tsp cinnamon, 6 tsp vanilla extract, and 5 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread and drizzle 1/4 cup honey over the casserole.
5. Chop 6 Bartlett pears into 1/2-inch cubes and place them on top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the bread is golden and slightly crispy.
7. Optional toppings include berries and plain Greek yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 36 pieces of whole-grain bread
• 24 eggs
• 3 cups unsweetened almond milk
• 6 tsp cinnamon
• 6 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 Bartlett pears
• 5 tablespoons monk fruit sweetener
• 1/4 cup honey
• Optional toppings: berries and plain Greek yogurt

Conclusion:

Bring the warmth of family memories to your breakfast table with this easy and healthy overnight French toast casserole. Perfect for large groups, this customizable recipe ensures a delightful start to any gathering. Enjoy the nostalgia and the delicious flavors while prioritizing your health and well-being.