Description
This decadent Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel is a perfect blend of rich, creamy custard soaked French bread baked over a luscious caramel base. Ideal for a special breakfast or brunch, it combines the classic flavors of creme brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast, topped with a drizzle of salted caramel and optional flaky sea salt for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
Bread & Custard
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Toppings
- Salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Pour this caramel mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange Bread: Carefully arrange the French bread slices over the caramel layer in a single, even layer ensuring each slice is well-supported.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak Bread: Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, pressing gently on the bread to help absorb the custard mixture. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the bread to soak thoroughly.
- Preheat Oven & Prepare to Bake: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to take the chill off.
- Bake: Bake the French toast uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set, the bread is puffed, and the top is golden brown.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle generously with warm salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired for an added touch of flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use a day-old loaf of French bread for better texture and to prevent sogginess.
- You may use store-bought salted caramel sauce or prepare your own for a homemade touch.
- To save time, assemble the dish the night before and bake fresh in the morning.
