Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Caramel Base
01 -
115 grams unsalted butter
02 -
200 grams brown sugar, packed
03 -
30 millilitres corn syrup
→ Custard
04 -
5 large eggs
05 -
360 millilitres whole milk
06 -
15 millilitres vanilla extract
07 -
1.25 millilitres salt
08 -
5 millilitres ground cinnamon (optional)
→ Assembly
09 -
1 loaf French bread, cut into 2.5 centimetre slices
# Instructions:
01 -
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup together. Stir occasionally until the mixture is bubbly and the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3–4 minutes. Pour the hot caramel evenly into the base of a 23 x 33 centimetre baking dish, ensuring a smooth layer.
02 -
Slice the French bread into 2.5 centimetre slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer over the caramel in the baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary for a snug fit.
03 -
In a medium mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon until well combined and slightly frothy. Evenly pour the custard mixture over the arranged bread slices, ensuring full coverage. Gently press the bread to help it absorb the custard.
04 -
Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the bread to thoroughly absorb the custard.
05 -
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 15 minutes to prevent uneven baking. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The edges should be crisp and the centre should have a custardy consistency.
06 -
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before portioning. Invert each slice so the caramelized side is on top. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
# Notes:
01 -
Substitute brioche or challah for a richer texture and sweeter flavour profile.
02 -
Enhance the custard with a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for aromatic depth.
03 -
Layer fresh fruit such as berries or sautéed apples between bread slices prior to chilling for varied texture and brightness.
04 -
For a crisp caramelized topping, sprinkle coarse sugar over the casserole during the final 10 minutes of baking or finish with a kitchen torch.
05 -
To prepare a gluten-free variation, use a sturdy gluten-free bread cut into thick slices.