Keyword: brunch, casserole, crème brûlée, French toast, make-ahead, sweet
Prep Time: 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time: 40 minutesminutes
Chill Time: 4 hourshours
Total Time: 4 hourshours55 minutesminutes
Servings: 8slices
Calories: 350kcal
Equipment
9x13-inch baking dish
Saucepan
whisk
Plastic wrap
Ingredients
For the Caramel Base
1/2cupUnsalted Buttermelted
1cupBrown Sugar
1/4cupCorn Syruphoney can be substituted
For the Casserole
1loafFrench Breador Brioche/Challah, slightly stale
6largeEggs
2cupsWhole Milkor almond milk for a lighter option
2tablespoonsVanilla Extractpreferably pure
1/2teaspoonSalt
1teaspoonCinnamonoptional
Instructions
Preparation
In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat. Stir for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and fragrant. Pour this mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
Slice your French bread into 1-inch thick slices. Layer them over the caramel base in the baking dish, letting each piece soak up the goodness.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and optional cinnamon until smooth. Pour this custard mixture over the bread slices, pressing down gently to ensure they soak up every drop.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the custard is set.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly, then invert slices onto plates for serving with the caramelized side facing up. Garnish with powdered sugar or fresh berries.
Notes
For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.