Date Nut Bread French Toast Bake

Date nut bread, a classic American loaf packed with chewy dates and nuts, shines in this make-ahead French toast bake. Cubes soak in spiced custard, then bake golden and finish with maple syrup and toasted walnuts.

Serves 6 · 15 min prep · 45 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 410 cal
• 11g protein
• 48g carbs
• 20g fat
• 3g fiber

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Ingredients

• 1 (about 16 oz) date nut bread loaf
• 5 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• for serving maple syrup
• 1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts

Instructions

1. 1Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter and set aside.
2. 2Cut the date nut bread into 1-inch cubes, leaving the crust on for texture, and scatter them evenly in the prepared dish.
3. 3In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until uniform, then whisk in the milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
4. 4Pour the custard slowly and evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently with a spatula so every piece soaks up liquid.
5. 5Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight so the bread fully absorbs the custard and softens.
6. 6When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F and let the chilled dish sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
7. 7Dot the top with small pieces of butter and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown, the edges are bubbling, and the center is set but still custardy.
8. 8If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
9. 9Remove from the oven and rest 10 minutes so the bake firms slightly for cleaner squares.
10. 10Dust lightly with extra cinnamon if desired, scatter toasted walnuts over the top, and serve warm with maple syrup drizzled at the table.