Name: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons corn syrup; 1 loaf French bread, sliced; 5 eggs; 1 1/2 cups half and half; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Description

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent and easy-to-make breakfast casserole that combines rich caramelized sugar with tender, custardy French bread. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, it delivers a spectacular caramel crust reminiscent of classic crème brûlée, with a soft, flavorful interior perfect for a special brunch or holiday gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Caramel Sauce

1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup

Main Ingredients

1 loaf French bread, sliced
5 eggs
1 1/2 cups half and half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Prepare the Caramel Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup, stirring until smooth and fully combined. Carefully pour this caramel mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to create the base layer.
Layer the Bread: Arrange the sliced French bread evenly over the caramel mixture in the baking dish, ensuring all slices are laid flat and cover the caramel completely.
Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended.
Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the custard thoroughly.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak and flavors to meld.
Preheat Oven: Remove the casserole from the fridge about 15 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is puffed up.
Invert and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking. Carefully invert the dish onto a serving platter to reveal the beautifully caramelized crust on top. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

You can use day-old French bread for better absorption and texture.
Half and half can be substituted with whole milk or heavy cream for a lighter or richer custard.
Ensure to cool the casserole slightly before flipping to keep the caramel crust intact.
For added flavor, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the egg mixture.
Serve topped with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup if desired.