French Toast Pie

COURSE Breakfast, Kids Friendly

SERVES 6 - 8

TIME About 50 minutes

Cooking Tips: This dish can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning.

Ingredients:

• 1 Loaf of toast (I use Nature's Own Honey Wheat)

• Oil or Butter for greasing the pie plate

• 2 Cups of half and half

• 3 Tbsp of sugar

• 3 eggs

• 1/4 Tsp vanilla extract

• Maple syrup for serving (optional)

• Fresh berries for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

2. Cube the toasts to small chunks (about 4 cuts horizontally and 4 cuts vertically)

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, and sugar, and then whisk in the eggs and vanilla.

4. Add bread cubes and combine with the milk mixture. Allow soaking for at least 10 mins.

5. Grease the pie plate and dump in the bread and milk mixture.

6. Bake for about 35 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Recipe Inspiration:

This recipe is inspired by the "Fantastic French Toast Muffins" recipe from the cookbook La Boulange Cafe Cooking at Home.

About this recipe:

I used to travel to San Francisco for work very frequently. La Boulange Cafe & Bakery was my favorite place to eat breakfast or lunch. It's a vibrant cafe with delicious food, coffee, and desserts. My trip wouldn't be complete without getting a box of macaroons to bring home to my family. The brand was later acquired by Starbucks, who closed down all the La Boulange locations. While you can find La Boulange brand pastries in Starbucks stores, sitting in the La Boulange Cafe was always one of my favorite memories in the city.

Prior to the store closing, they were giving out cookbooks with the recipes of their menu items to customers purchased over certain dollar amount. With my large box of macaroon purchase, I received my a cookbook. It was bitter sweet. I was excited to be able to make some of my favorite dishes at home, but I know I will miss sitting in the La Boulange Cafe. On the other hand, what a thoughtful way for the owner and chefs and bakers of La Boulange to pass on the legacy!

At the cafe, they sold French Toast Muffins instead of French Toast Pies. As a working mom of two children, I always find it difficult to wash muffin pans. The French Toast Pie is a breakfast that my family always look forward to. I tuned down the sugar significantly, but the maple syrup is always a good option for anyone who prefers a sweeter taste.