Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the bread on the baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of butter on both sides of each slice of bread.

Place the eggs, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk vigorously to combine.

Dip one bread slice at a time in the egg and milk mixture, soaking both sides of the slice. Transfer the egg-soaked bread back to the baking sheet.

Bake the French toast on middle rack of oven for 10-12 minutes.

Carefully flip the French toast. Continue baking until toast is golden brown, 7-9 minutes.

Check to see that French toast is done. Remove from oven or add time as needed.

Serve immediately. Drizzle with maple syrup, if desired.