French Toast

Ingredients:
• 8 thick slices of hearty white bread (about 1/2″ thick slices)
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 4 eggs
• 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for skillet
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the bread slices on a wire rack or baking sheet and bake for 7-8 minutes. Flip the slices and bake for an additional 7-8 minutes until lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, eggs, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract until well blended.
4. Transfer the egg mixture to a large baking dish.
5. Soak each slice of bread in the egg mixture for about 20 seconds per side, ensuring they are evenly coated. Transfer the soaked bread slices to a separate baking sheet to prevent them from becoming soggy.
6. Lower the oven temperature to 200°F (95°C) to keep the cooked French toast warm while preparing the remaining slices.
7. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter.
8. Cook the soaked bread slices on the skillet or griddle until golden brown and crispy on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving platter and keep warm in the preheated oven while cooking the remaining slices.
10. Serve the warm French toast with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.