Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole is a delightful twist on classic French toast, combining a rich caramel base with a custardy, baked bread pudding. Perfect for brunch or a special breakfast, it offers a luscious, sweet flavor that’s sure to impress your family and guests.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp corn syrup
• 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
• 5 large eggs
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, about 3-4 minutes. Pour this caramel sauce evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer over the caramel sauce, overlapping slightly if necessary to fit the dish.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon if using. Pour this custard evenly over the bread slices, making sure each piece is well soaked.
4. Step 4: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
5. Step 5: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top turns golden and the custard is set.
7. Step 7: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Serve by inverting each slice so the caramel layer is on top. Enjoy warm, optionally with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture before pouring it over the bread.
• Using day-old French bread helps it absorb the custard better without falling apart.
• Top with whipped cream or fresh fruit for added texture and taste.
• Ground cinnamon is optional but adds a lovely warmth that complements the caramel perfectly.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. The caramel base may firm up when chilled but will soften again when warmed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

While French bread works best for texture, sturdy breads like brioche or challah can be used for a richer, softer casserole.

Do I have to chill it overnight?

Chilling overnight allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a creamy texture, but you can refrigerate for at least 4 hours if you’re short on time.

Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole Recipe

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This Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast dish featuring tender French bread soaked overnight in a rich vanilla custard, topped with a buttery caramel base. Baked to golden perfection, it combines the creamy custard texture of creme brulee with the comforting warmth of French toast, perfect for a special morning treat or holiday brunch.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: overnight plus 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel Base

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp corn syrup

French Toast

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices

Custard

• 5 large eggs
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Caramel Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter along with the packed brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once ready, pour this caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a rich sweet base.
2. Arrange the Bread: Place the 1-inch slices of French bread in a single layer over the caramel sauce in the baking dish. Slightly overlap the slices if necessary to cover the entire dish.
3. Prepare the Custard: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon if using. Make sure the custard mixture is well combined.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each slice is fully soaked.
5. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, enhancing flavor and texture.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and let the baking dish sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and the custard is set firmly.
7. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. Then invert each slice carefully so the caramel side is on top for serving. Serve warm, garnished with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Notes

• Using day-old French bread helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute the whole milk with almond or oat milk, but be mindful this may slightly alter the texture.
• The cinnamon is optional but adds a lovely warm spice that complements the caramel flavor.
• For an extra caramelized top, sprinkle sugar on top and use a kitchen torch briefly after baking.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.

Keywords: Creme Brulee French Toast Casserole, baked French toast, caramel breakfast casserole, holiday brunch recipes, overnight French toast