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French toast bakes have become a beloved staple in breakfast and brunch menus across the globe. They combine the comforting flavors of traditional French toast with the convenience of a baked dish, making them perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying a leisurely weekend morning at home. Among the various iterations of this delightful dish, Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast Bake stands out not only for its decadence but also for its ability to infuse a classic breakfast favorite with the rich, nutty sweetness of chocolate hazelnut spread.

Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast Bake

Indulge in the delightful Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast Bake, a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your breakfast or brunch table. This easy-to-make casserole features fluffy bread soaked in a rich chocolate hazelnut custard, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for serving a crowd or enjoying a lazy weekend morning, this recipe allows for endless customization. Elevate your breakfast game with this delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that your loved ones will adore!

Ingredients
  

1 loaf of crusty bread (French or Italian), cut into cubes

6 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)

1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts (toasted, for topping)

Powdered sugar (for serving)

Fresh berries (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

    Prepare the bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and chocolate hazelnut spread. Gently fold the bread cubes into the spread until well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

      Mix the egg custard: In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

        Combine and soak: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked evenly. Press down gently on the bread to ensure it absorbs the custard. Cover with foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for the best flavors.

          Bake: Remove the foil and sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts (if using) evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

            Cool and serve: Let it cool for around 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and garnish with fresh berries if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 1 hr | 8 servings