French Toast Casserole with Caramel

French Toast Casserole with Caramel

This dreamy French toast casserole is buttery, sweet, and baked over a thick layer of warm caramel. It’s crispy on top, soft and custardy inside, with that golden caramel surprise at the bottom.

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Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: French

Keyword: breakfast, Caramel, casserole, French toast, Make Ahead

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 40

Total Time: 55

Servings: servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the caramel base

1/2 cup unsalted butter 1 stick
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tbsp corn syrup optional, for extra caramel richness

For the casserole

1 loaf French bread or brioche, sliced thick
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 pinch salt

Instructions

Make the caramel base

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring constantly until smooth and bubbling (about 3–5 minutes).
Pour the caramel mixture into a greased 9×13” baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Prepare the casserole

Lay thick slices of French bread over the caramel in a snug, single layer.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. Press down gently to soak.
Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).

Bake the casserole

In the morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.
Let cool for a few minutes, then serve warm – scoop from the bottom to get that sticky caramel topping!

Notes

Serve with sliced bananas, berries, or chopped pecans. A dollop of whipped cream or drizzle of maple syrup takes it over the top. Want extra crispiness? Broil for the last 2 minutes (watch closely!).

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