Ingredients:

  • 5 cups stale bread, cubed (French or challah works best)
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • Optional: Fresh berries or whipped cream for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  3. Combine Bread and Milk Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine stale bread cubes, whole milk, and heavy cream. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid.
  4. Make the Custard Base: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Add optional lemon zest if desired.
  5. Mix Together: Pour the egg mixture over the soaked bread and gently fold everything together until well combined.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. Bake in Preheated Oven: Bake in preheated oven for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a knife inserted comes out clean.