Name: Baklava French Toast Bake: A Sweet Twist on Brunch Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Brioche or Challah (Use slightly stale bread for better custard absorption.); 2 cups Whole Milk (Substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 4 large Eggs (Can use flax-egg mixture for a vegan option.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Adjust to taste or substitute with a sugar alternative.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure extract for best results.); 1 cup Walnuts (Coarsely chopped; substitute with almonds or pecans.); 1/2 cup Pistachios (Shelled and chopped; omit or replace if allergies are present.); 6 sheets Phyllo Pastry (Torn into pieces; can replace with similar dough.); 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted; use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup Honey (Use maple syrup as a substitute for a different flavor profile.); 1/4 cup Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice (Fresh juice enhances the dish; bottled can be substituted.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Use zest from an organic orange for better flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Adjust for personal taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cardamom (Can be substituted with nutmeg or omitted.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cloves (Omit if not available or desired.); pinch Sea Salt (Balances sweetness.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the sun rises on a lazy Sunday morning, I find myself yearning for something beyond the usual breakfast fare. Enter the Baklava French Toast Bake—a delightful twist on brunch that combines the flaky indulgence of baklava with the comforting warmth of custardy French toast. This easy brunch recipe is designed for those cozy gatherings, bringing together friends and family around the table with minimal effort on your part. Its crunchy phyllo layers and aromatic honey-orange glaze create an exquisite brunch experience that feels both familiar and utterly luxurious. Why settle for ordinary? Dive in and let the enchanting aroma transport you to a café in the heart of Istanbul. Are you ready to give your mornings a delicious upgrade?

Why is Baklava French Toast Bake special?

Uniquely Flavorful: This recipe perfectly marries the sweetness of baklava with traditional French toast, resulting in a breakfast dish that’s both familiar and exotic.

Easy Preparation: With minimal effort required, you can whip up this indulgent dish, making it a go-to for brunch or special occasions.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating your family, the delightful flavors are sure to impress everyone around the table.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven the next morning—ideal for busy mornings!

Rich, Aromatic Experience: The honey-orange glaze adds a vibrant touch, elevating your brunch spread and transporting you to a café atmosphere. Why not explore other easy brunch recipes to complement this dish?

Baklava French Toast Bake Ingredients

For the Base

• Brioche or Challah (8 thick slices) – Base structure; use slightly stale bread for better custard absorption.

For the Custard

• Whole Milk (2 cups) – Moisture; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Eggs (4 large) – Binder for custard; can use flax-egg mixture for a vegan option.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetness; adjust to taste or substitute with a sugar alternative.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Flavor enhancer; use pure extract for best results.

For the Toppings

• Walnuts (1 cup, coarsely chopped) – Crunch and richness; substitute with almonds or pecans.
• Pistachios (1/2 cup, shelled and chopped) – Added texture and flavor; omit or replace if allergies are present.
• Phyllo Pastry (6 sheets, torn into pieces) – Crisp texture; can replace with similar dough, though phyllo provides a unique flakiness.
• Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, melted) – Fats for flavor; use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

For the Glaze

• Honey (1/2 cup) – Sweet glaze; use maple syrup as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
• Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice (1/4 cup) – Bright acidity; fresh juice enhances the dish; bottled can be substituted.
• Orange Zest (1 tablespoon) – Aromatic element; use zest from an organic orange for better flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon) – Warm spice note; adjust for personal taste.
• Ground Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon) – Unique spice depth; can be substituted with nutmeg or omitted.
• Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon) – Warmth and earthiness; omit if not available or desired.
• Sea Salt (pinch) – Balances sweetness.

Now you have everything you need for this delicious Baklava French Toast Bake, ensuring a delightful brunch experience that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baklava French Toast Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure your Baklava French Toast Bake doesn’t stick. The warm air will create the perfect environment for a deliciously golden top as it bakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread and Phyllo
Layer the thick slices of brioche or challah evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. Tear the phyllo pastry sheets into pieces and scatter them generously over the brioche, drizzling melted butter on top to provide a lovely crispy texture that mimics the indulgence of baklava.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and a pinch of sea salt. Vigorously mix until the ingredients are well combined and frothy, creating a smooth custard that will soak into the bread for rich flavor.

Step 4: Combine Nuts and Pour Custard
Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and pistachios evenly over the phyllo and brioche layer. Next, pour the custard mixture over the assembled ingredients, ensuring an even distribution while allowing the brioche to soak up all the flavorful liquid. Let it absorb for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Honey-Orange Glaze
Combine honey, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and ground cinnamon in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes syrupy, adding a luscious glaze to complement your Baklava French Toast Bake.

Step 6: Bake the Dish
Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, drizzle half of the honey-orange glaze over the top to infuse even more flavor and achieve that delightful, glazed finish.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the custard set for cleaner slices. Cut the Baklava French Toast Bake into squares and serve warm, drizzling with the remaining glaze and topping as desired.

Make Ahead Options

These Baklava French Toast Bake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply layer the brioche and phyllo, prepare the custard, and pour it over the assembled ingredients, allowing them to soak for at least 5 minutes. To maintain quality, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes, adding the honey-orange glaze halfway through baking for that delectable finish. Enjoy brunching with minimal morning hassle!

Storage Tips for Baklava French Toast Bake

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This method helps retain the delightful flavors and moist texture of the Baklava French Toast Bake.

Freezer: For longer preservation, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever cravings strike!

Reheating: To reheat, Cover the dish with foil and bake at 325°F for 12-15 minutes, or you can microwave each slice for a quick warm-up. Just be mindful not to overheat, as this could dry out the layers.

Expert Tips for Baklava French Toast Bake

Day-Old Bread: Use slightly stale brioche or challah for better custard absorption; don’t opt for fresh bread that will become too mushy.
Whisking Care: Avoid over-mixing the custard to prevent air bubbles; a frothy custard is best for an even texture in your Baklava French Toast Bake.
Phyllo Preparation: Keep an eye while toasting phyllo; it should be crispy but not burnt—toast it lightly for the perfect crunch!
Cover If Browning: If the top is getting too brown, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to maintain color while cooking through.
Cool Before Serving: Let the dish sit for 10 minutes after baking; this resting time ensures cleaner, more defined slices when serving.

What to Serve with Baklava French Toast Bake

As you savor each bite of this decadent treat, consider the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your brunch experience to new heights.

Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy, it complements the sweetness of the dish while adding a refreshing note.
Fresh Berries: Their tartness provides a beautiful contrast to the rich flavors, creating a delightful balance on your plate.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey enhances the baklava essence in each bite, making dessert feel extra special.
Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pistachios added on top create an appealing crunch, harmonizing with the dish’s textures wonderfully.

Pairing your Baklava French Toast Bake with these options will transform your brunch into an unforgettable feast, appealing to both the eye and the palate. Enjoy every moment with bites that are warm, sweet, and oh-so-delightful!

Baklava French Toast Bake Variations

Customize this delightful recipe to match your tastes and dietary needs for a truly personalized brunch experience!

Nut-Free: Omit the nuts entirely or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for a similar crunch without allergens.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk instead of whole milk. For a rich replacement, try coconut milk, which adds a hint of tropical flavor.
Vegan: Replace eggs with a flax-egg mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter for a completely vegan twist.
Sugar-Free: Sweeten the custard with a natural sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit for a guilt-free indulgence.
Fruity Addition: Add dried fruits such as chopped figs or apricots into the layers for extra sweetness and chewiness, giving a lovely burst of natural flavor.
Cinnamon Roll Twist: Drizzle a cinnamon roll glaze over the top instead of the honey-orange glaze for a deliciously chaotic spin on traditional flavors.
Spice Level: Sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an unexpected heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Alternative Bread: Experiment with challah or French bread instead of brioche, or try whole grain options for a heartier texture.

For more brunch ideas that cater to every palate, check out these easy brunch recipes to complement your Baklava French Toast Bake!

Baklava French Toast Bake Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Baklava French Toast Bake?
I recommend using brioche or challah for the best flavor and texture. Slightly stale bread is ideal as it absorbs the custard beautifully without getting overly mushy, leading to an indulgent dessert-like outcome.

How should I store leftovers of Baklava French Toast Bake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze Baklava French Toast Bake?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let the dish cool completely. Then portion it out into slices, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What if my phyllo pastry burns while baking?
If you notice the phyllo browning too quickly, cover the top loosely with aluminum foil. This simple step will help you achieve a golden, crispy top without burning it. Just remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow it to crisp up nicely.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re serving someone with nut allergies, you can omit the walnuts and pistachios or substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Additionally, for gluten-free needs, look for gluten-free bread alternatives that work well in a custard preparation.