A delicious overnight caramel French toast bake with a rich custard and caramel base.
Ingredients
Caramel Base
- 1/2cupunsalted butter
- 1cuppacked brown sugar
- 2tbspcorn syrup
Main Ingredients
- 1loaf French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
Custard Mixture
- 5piecelarge eggs
- 1 1/2cupshalf-and-half
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 1tspGrand Marnier or orange liqueur (optional)
- 1/4tspsalt
How to make Caramel French Toast Bake
Prepare Caramel Base
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
Pour the caramel mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly over the bottom.
Assemble French Toast
Arrange the slices of French bread in a single layer over the caramel base. You may need to overlap them slightly to fit.
Prepare Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, Grand Marnier (if using), and salt until well combined.
Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, ensuring they are evenly soaked.
Refrigerate and Bake
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks
For a more intense flavor, use a flavored liqueur like Grand Marnier.
Ensure the bread is well soaked in the custard for the best texture.
FAQS
How do I make caramel French toast bake ahead of time?
To make caramel French toast bake ahead of time, prepare the caramel mixture and layer the French bread in the baking dish as instructed. After pouring the custard mixture over the bread, cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, making it perfect for baking the next morning.
Can I substitute half-and-half in the caramel French toast bake recipe?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half with whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Keep in mind that using a lower-fat milk may result in a slightly less rich custard, but it will still be delicious.
What is the best way to store leftover caramel French toast bake?
To store leftover caramel French toast bake, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What can I serve with caramel French toast bake for a complete breakfast?
For a complete breakfast, consider serving caramel French toast bake with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also pair it with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast.
Is caramel French toast bake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make caramel French toast bake suitable for a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free bread instead of traditional French bread. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the corn syrup and vanilla extract, are gluten-free as well.
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Saramin
(@678sarin)
My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes in creating easy-to-follow recipes inspired by global cuisines. With a focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients, they make cooking accessible and enjoyable for cooks at any level. My name is Saramin is a culinary enthusiast with a flair for transforming everyday ingredients into delightful, flavour-packed dishes. Passionate about home cooking, Sarin specializes...
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