This Elegant Overnight Caramelized French Toast Delight marries the sophistication of crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of French toast. Originating from the classic French dessert, crème brûlée, this dish offers a delightful twist by incorporating the rich, custardy texture into a breakfast favorite. Preparing it the night before makes it perfect for a stress-free morning, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely breakfast without the rush. It's an ideal choice for brunch gatherings or a special weekend treat.

This French toast pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, caramelized flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the dish further. For a savory balance, consider serving it alongside crispy bacon or a light arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Servings: 6-8 servings

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons light corn syrup
1 loaf of challah or brioche bread
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon Grand Marnier (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing (optional)

Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Stir in the brown sugar and light corn syrup until smooth and well combined.

Pour this mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Slice the challah or brioche bread and arrange the slices over the butter and sugar mixture in the dish.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half cream, vanilla extract, Grand Marnier (if using), and salt until well combined.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all pieces are soaked.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Optional: Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top of the baked French toast and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.

Serve warm and enjoy!

For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the bread before pouring the egg mixture. If you prefer a fruitier version, add a layer of sliced bananas or berries between the bread slices. For a more indulgent flavor, replace the half-and-half with heavy cream. If Grand Marnier is unavailable, substitute with a splash of orange juice or omit it entirely. To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk or almond milk in place of half-and-half.

Copyright 2016 Cooktop Cove