Ingredients
1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
5 large eggs
1½ cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional garnish: powdered sugar, berries, or maple syrup
Instructions
1. Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth.
3. Pour caramel mixture into the bottom of the baking dish.
4. Arrange bread slices tightly over the caramel layer.
5. In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Pour custard evenly over the bread.
7. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until puffed and golden.
10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving and garnish as desired.
Notes
Brioche or challah works best for a soft, custardy texture.
For extra caramelization, broil for 1–2 minutes before serving.
This dish is ideal for prepping the night before stress-free brunches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: creme brulee french toast, baked french toast casserole, brunch french toast, holiday breakfast recipe