Description
Experience a luxurious twist on a classic morning dish with the Crème Brûlée Inspired French Toast Bake. This recipe elevates the humble French toast into an elegant breakfast, combining the creamy, rich essence of the famous dessert with the beloved comfort of French toast. Perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or when you simply desire a special start to your day, this dish promises to delight your taste buds with its decadent layers and caramelized finish.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Bread
Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced French bread in a single layer within the dish.
2. Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Soak the Bread
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is thoroughly soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb all the flavors.
4. Preheat and Prep for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle additional sugar over the top.
5. Bake
Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the toast is golden brown and puffed up.
6. Caramelize the Top
After baking, allow the dish to cool slightly. Sprinkle more granulated sugar over the top and place under the broiler for a few minutes just until the sugar caramelizes and forms a crispy layer.
Servings & Preparation Time
This dish serves approximately 6-8 people. Preparation time includes about 15 minutes of active preparation and 35-40 minutes of baking. The bread should be soaked overnight, so plan accordingly.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for quick convenience, or cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
The Crème Brûlée Inspired French Toast Bake is an exceptional dish that transforms any breakfast or brunch into a festive occasion. It smoothly blends the familiar comfort of French toast with the elegant flavor profile of crème brûlée. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat your family to a special morning meal, this recipe delivers a delicious, visually appealing, and undeniably indulgent experience.
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Crème Brûlée Inspired French Toast Bake
- Total Time: 17 minute
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Description
Experience a luxurious twist on a classic morning dish with the Crème Brûlée Inspired French Toast Bake. This recipe elevates the humble French toast into an elegant breakfast, combining the creamy, rich essence of the famous dessert with the beloved comfort of French toast. Perfect for brunches, family gatherings, or when you simply desire a special start to your day, this dish promises to delight your taste buds with its decadent layers and caramelized finish.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced French bread in a single layer within the dish.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is thoroughly soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb all the flavors.
- Preheat and Prep for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish. Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle additional sugar over the top.
- Bake: Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the toast is golden brown and puffed up.
- Caramelize the Top: After baking, allow the dish to cool slightly. Sprinkle more granulated sugar over the top and place under the broiler for a few minutes just until the sugar caramelizes and forms a crispy layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes