Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Caramel Base
01 -
115g unsalted butter
02 -
200g packed brown sugar
03 -
2 tbsp corn syrup
→ Custard
04 -
5 large eggs
05 -
350ml whole milk
06 -
1 tbsp vanilla extract
07 -
1/4 tsp salt
08 -
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
→ Assembly
09 -
1 loaf French bread, cut into 2.5cm slices
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup together. Stir occasionally until the mixture bubbles and thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Ensure sugar dissolves completely. Pour the caramel sauce evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
02 -
Slice the French bread into 2.5cm slices and arrange them in a single layer over the caramel base in the baking dish. Overlap slices slightly if needed to fit them all in, ensuring even distribution across the dish.
03 -
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until smooth and slightly frothy. Pour the custard evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each slice is well-soaked. Press down gently on the bread to help absorption.
04 -
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.
05 -
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard has set with slightly crispy edges.
06 -
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Invert each slice so the caramelized side faces up. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
# Handy Tips:
01 -
For a richer version, substitute French bread with brioche or challah.
02 -
Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for variation.
03 -
Fresh berries or sautéed fruits can be added for extra flavor and texture.
04 -
For extra crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
05 -
This casserole can be prepared the night before, making it perfect for entertaining.