Description
A luxurious overnight French toast bake with a caramelized, custardy texture perfect for holiday mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf French bread, cubed (stale bread works best!)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in brown sugar and maple syrup, cooking until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour this caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly over the caramel layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, pressing them down slightly to soak.
- Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take the dish out of the fridge while the oven preheats.
- Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, until golden brown and set.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Scoop out portions, flipping them so the caramel side is on top.
- Top with whipped cream, fresh berries, and powdered sugar.
Notes
Use day-old bread to prevent a mushy texture and ensure a rich, flavorful bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: French toast, overnight bake, crème brûlée, holiday breakfast