When it comes to preparing a French toast bake that's irresistibly moist, the custard-to-bread ratio is key. A common mistake is using too much custard, which can result in a soggy bake, or too little, leaving the dish dry. To get expert insight on this, we turned to Kyle Mendenhall, senior director of culinary innovation at , who shared that the secret lies in the way you layer and test your custard-soaked bread.
Mendenhall advised that we add just enough custard to cover, but not submerge, the bread in the pan. With this approach, the bread will absorb the custard overnight, achieving that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture we're looking for. One of Mendenhall's best tips was to press gently on the bread before baking.
If a bit of custard seeps out easily, your ratio is spot on. If it requires too much pressure, it might need a splash more custard, and if custard gushes out, pour off some liquid to avoid a heavy, overly wet bake. This balance ensures each slice is flavorful, moist, and perfectly textured — ideal for mastering French toast bakes.
Of course, none of this will matter if you don't in the first place. How to keep a French toast bake moist during baking Even with the right custard ratio, it's essential to cook your French toast bake properly. Start by baking it with a foil cover at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.
This covered bake keeps the top from over-browning or drying out. Then remove the foil cover and continue baking for an addition.
