Description
Indulge in a decadent breakfast treat with this Creme Brulee French Toast recipe, featuring layers of day-old French bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, topped with a luscious caramel layer, and baked to perfection. This dish combines the creamy custard texture with a sweet caramel undertone for a brunch-worthy delight that’s perfect for special occasions or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Bread
- 3 loaves Jimmy John’s Day Old French Bread (or other French bread of your choice)
Custard Mixture
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half and half cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Caramel Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons dark corn syrup
Garnish
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the French bread into pieces about 2 inches high so they fit snugly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. Add the half and half cream, vanilla extract, orange liqueur, and salt. Stir until fully incorporated and set aside.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the dark brown sugar and dark corn syrup, stirring continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved, about 3 minutes.
- Coat the Baking Dish: Remove the caramel sauce from heat and immediately pour it slowly into the 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring the bottom is evenly coated with caramel.
- Arrange the Bread: Place the cut French bread pieces tightly into the baking dish over the caramel, minimizing gaps for even soaking.
- Saturate Bread with Custard: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to saturate each piece fully.
- Chill to Absorb: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 8 hours, to allow the bread to soak up the custard fully. Chilling is optional but recommended for best texture.
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature as the oven heats.
- Bake: Bake the French toast for 35-40 minutes until the bread is puffed and the top turns a golden brown color.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the baked French toast to rest for 5 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm as a luxurious breakfast or brunch centerpiece.
Notes
- Using day-old French bread helps the custard absorb better without the bread falling apart.
- Chilling the dish overnight enhances flavor and texture but can be skipped in a pinch.
- Orange liqueur adds a subtle citrus note but can be omitted if desired.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute half and half with coconut cream or almond milk, though texture and richness may vary.
- Ensure caramel sauce is poured immediately after making, so it doesn’t harden before placing the bread.