Ingredients

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

4 thick slices challah, brioche, or other egg bread (1 inch thick)

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 bag (10 to 12 ounces) frozen raspberries (or strawberries), thawed

Smoked chicken sausage, warmed, for serving (optional)

Preparation

In a 9-by-13-inch baking dish, whisk together eggs, milk, 1/4 cup sugar, vanilla, and salt.

Arrange bread in dish in a single layer; let soak 15 minutes. Turn bread over; cover, and refrigerate until most of the liquid is absorbed, at least 30 minutes and up to overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush a rimmed baking sheet with butter. With a spatula, carefully transfer soaked bread to sheet. Bake until French toast is set in center and lightly browned on the bottom, 25 to 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine raspberries and remaining 1/4 cup sugar, mashing lightly with a fork.

Remove French toast from baking sheet with a thin metal spatula; serve with raspberry sauce and, if desired, sausage.