Description
This Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole is a luxurious breakfast or brunch dish that combines rich caramel flavors with a custardy interior and crisp, golden top. It’s prepped the night before, making it perfect for holidays or entertaining guests. The crème brûlée base melts into the bread as it bakes, giving every bite a deliciously sweet, buttery finish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Base:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
For the Custard:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Optional Add-Ons:
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas
- Whipped cream or powdered sugar (for serving)
- Caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbly. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer over the caramel mixture. Cut slices to fit if needed.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing down slightly to ensure absorption.
- Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven heats.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite toppings such as whipped cream, fruit, or caramel drizzle.
Notes
- You can use brioche or challah instead of French bread for a softer, richer texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it extra indulgent, sprinkle the top with sugar before baking to mimic a brûléed crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus overnight chill)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: French toast casserole, crème brûlée breakfast, overnight French toast, holiday brunch, caramel French toast