A decadent breakfast or brunch dish inspired by crème brûlée, with layers of rich custard-soaked bread, topped with a sweet, crispy caramelized sugar crust. The perfect way to indulge in a luxurious breakfast!
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf French bread (about 10 cups cubed)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Directions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and place them in the prepared dish. Set aside.
- Make the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cubed bread. Gently press the bread down to ensure all the pieces are soaked in the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Caramelize the Top:
- Once the casserole is baked, sprinkle the top evenly with granulated sugar. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden crust. (Alternatively, you can place the casserole under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning the sugar.)
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and serve warm with syrup or fresh berries for extra flavor!
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 4 hours of chilling)
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Calories: ~400 per serving
Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole is a show-stopping dish that combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the elegance of crème brûlée. The crispy caramelized sugar topping gives it that perfect sweet finish—ideal for a special breakfast or brunch!