Indulge in Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast: The Ultimate Breakfast Sensation

Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast with Pineapple and Raspberries

For those in the know, “The Pioneer Woman” Ree Drummond, is synonymous with hearty, flavorful, and family-friendly recipes. Among her treasure trove of culinary delights, the Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast stands out as a breakfast masterpiece. This isn’t just any French toast; it’s an overnight sensation that promises a delightful blend of textures and tastes, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or festive holiday brunches. If you’re searching for a breakfast dish that’s both impressive and effortlessly delicious, look no further than this Coconut-Ginger Baked French Toast recipe inspired by the queen of comfort food herself.

Why Pioneer Woman’s Baked French Toast is a Breakfast Game Changer

Ree Drummond’s recipes are beloved for their down-to-earth approach and incredible flavor payoff, and her baked french toast is no exception. What makes this Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast recipe a true winner? It’s the brilliant combination of convenience and indulgence. The overnight preparation takes the stress out of morning cooking, allowing flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a breakfast that tastes like you’ve spent hours slaving away when you’ve barely lifted a finger in the morning.

A Symphony of Coconut and Ginger

The star flavors of this dish, coconut and ginger, create an exotic twist on classic French toast. The creamy coconut infusion lends a tropical sweetness, while the zesty ginger adds a warm and invigorating spice. This isn’t your average sugary breakfast; it’s a sophisticated yet comforting dish that awakens the palate and leaves you craving more. The Pioneer Woman truly understands how to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, treating your family to a special weekend breakfast, or simply craving a comforting morning treat, this Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast is your go-to recipe. Its make-ahead nature makes it ideal for entertaining, freeing you up to enjoy your guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Imagine serving this fragrant, golden-brown casserole – it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy every palate around the table.

Crafting Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast: Step-by-Step

Bringing this Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast to life in your own kitchen is surprisingly simple. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s original recipe, this guide breaks down each step to ensure your breakfast bake turns out perfectly every time. Get ready to experience the magic of overnight flavors and wake up to the irresistible aroma of coconut and ginger.

Essential Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s French Toast

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather these key ingredients for the French toast and the delectable crumble topping:

For the French Toast:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound artisan or crusty sourdough loaf, cut into 1-inch chunks (Sourdough works exceptionally well)
• 1 cup cream of coconut (Coco Real recommended for its rich flavor)
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

For the Crumble Topping:

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (Morton recommended)
• 2 tablespoons finely minced candied ginger
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

Easy-to-Follow Baking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast masterpiece:

Step 1: Prepare the French Toast Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter the bottom and sides of a 9″ x 13″ baking pan.
2. Arrange the bread chunks evenly in the prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together cream of coconut, whole milk, heavy cream, fresh ginger, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and coconut extract until smooth.
4. Stir in the ½ cup of unsweetened coconut flakes into the wet mixture.
5. Pour the luscious mixture evenly over the bread in the pan, ensuring all pieces are soaked.

Step 2: Craft the Crumble Topping

1. In a separate medium bowl, combine cold butter pieces, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground ginger, and kosher salt.
2. Use a pastry blender or fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the candied ginger and ½ cup of unsweetened coconut flakes to the crumble.
4. Generously sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the soaked bread in the pan.

Step 3: Overnight Chill (Crucial for Flavor!)

1. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
2. Refrigerate for at least several hours or, ideally, overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

1. In the morning, remove the pan from the refrigerator and preheat your oven again to 350°F (175°C).
2. Uncover the pan and bake for 45-60 minutes, or even a bit longer for a firmer texture and crispier topping. The top should be golden brown and bubbly.
3. If desired, lightly drizzle extra cream of coconut over the hot baked French toast for added richness.
4. Let the baked French toast cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast with Pineapple and Raspberries

Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast

This Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast is delightful on its own, but a few thoughtful serving suggestions can elevate the experience even further:

• Classic Accompaniments: Serve warm with softened butter and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.
• Tropical Twist: Enhance the coconut-ginger theme with fresh pineapple chunks and juicy raspberries, as pictured.
• Extra Creaminess: Offer additional cream of coconut for those who desire an extra touch of sweetness and coconut flavor.
• Berries and More: Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries are also fantastic additions.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a cloud-like lightness.

Experience the Magic of Pioneer Woman’s Baking

The Pioneer Woman Baked French Toast is more than just a breakfast recipe; it’s an invitation to create joyful moments in your kitchen and around your table. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s signature style, this Coconut-Ginger Baked French Toast is guaranteed to become a beloved favorite for family breakfasts, holiday celebrations, and any occasion that calls for a touch of homemade deliciousness. Wake up to the irresistible aroma and treat yourself and your loved ones to this exceptional breakfast bake – you won’t be disappointed!