Description

This Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole transforms the classic dessert into a luxurious breakfast. With caramelized brown sugar, creamy custard-soaked French bread, and a crackly brûléed sugar topping, it’s a rich, make-ahead dish perfect for holidays or indulgent mornings.

Ingredients

1 loaf French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick cubes (about 10 cups)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup or maple syrup
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional: 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for brûlée topping

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Instructions

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly distribute the cubed French bread inside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth (about 2–3 minutes).
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread, gently pressing the cubes to help them absorb the liquid.
Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Optional: Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the top for a brûlée effect.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 40–45 minutes until puffed and golden.
Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture and to avoid sogginess.

For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes after baking.

Add berries or nuts between the bread layers for extra flavor and texture.

Can be made dairy-free by using almond milk and coconut cream.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 375 kcal
Sugar: 23g
Sodium: 220mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 140mg