When I want an easy yet special breakfast that feels festive, I make Panettone French Toast Bake. Panettone is soft, buttery, and already filled with dried fruit, which makes it perfect for soaking up a creamy custard. This bake comes out golden on top, soft in the middle, and smells amazing while it cooks. It’s my favorite make-ahead brunch for holidays and relaxed weekends.
Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Serving Size: 6–8 servings
Why You’ll Love This Panettone French Toast Bake
This recipe is simple, comforting, and feels bakery-level fancy with very little effort. I love that panettone already has sweetness and texture, so there’s no need for extra ingredients. You can prep it the night before, bake it in the morning, and enjoy a warm, crowd-pleasing breakfast without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 large panettone loaf, cut into cubes
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4 large eggs
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1 1/2 cups milk or cream
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1/4 cup sugar or maple syrup
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
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Butter for greasing
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Optional: powdered sugar for topping
How I Make My Panettone French Toast Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Dish
Grease a baking dish with butter.
Spread the panettone cubes evenly inside.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 3: Assemble
Pour the custard over the panettone.
Press gently so the bread soaks it up.
Let it rest for 10 minutes (or cover and chill overnight).
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
Soft inside, lightly crisp on top, and full of festive flavor!
Serving Suggestions
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Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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Drizzle with maple syrup or honey.
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Serve with fresh berries or fruit compote.
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Add whipped cream or vanilla yogurt on the side.
Tips for Customization
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Extra rich: Use half milk and half cream.
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Chocolate lovers: Add chocolate chips.
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Nutty crunch: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
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Citrus twist: Add orange zest to the custard.
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Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 320–380
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Carbs: 40–45g
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Fat: 14–18g
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Protein: 8–10g
FAQs
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before and bake in the morning.
2. Can I use stale panettone?
Absolutely — slightly stale bread works even better.
3. How do I know it’s done?
The center should be set and not watery.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, slice and freeze for up to 2 months.
Final Bite
This Panettone French Toast Bake is warm, comforting, and perfect for special mornings. It’s easy to prepare, beautiful to serve, and always makes breakfast feel like a celebration. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a holiday favorite in your kitchen.
