Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Ingredients

For the French Toast Base:

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick (sturdy & soaks up custard perfectly!)
• 5 large eggs (for a rich custard texture!)
• 1 cup half-and-half (adds creaminess!)
• 1 cup whole milk (balances the custard!)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the flavor!)
• ⅔ cup granulated sugar (adds just the right sweetness!)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a touch of warmth!)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (balances the flavors!)

For the Caramelized Topping (Brûlée Effect!):

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup brown sugar (creates a deep, caramel-like crunch!)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (adds extra richness!)
• Extra granulated sugar for caramelized topping

Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   1. Eggs
   2. Half-and-half & whole milk
   3. Granulated sugar
   4. Vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt
   5. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
2. Arrange & Soak the Bread
   1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
   2. Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
   3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, making sure each slice is well-coated.
   4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to absorb all the flavors.
3. Make the Buttery Caramel Topping
   1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   2. Stir in brown sugar and maple syrup, cooking until smooth.
   3. Let cool slightly, then drizzle over the soaked bread before baking.
4. Bake to Perfection
   1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
   3. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.
5. Crème Brûlée-Style Topping
   1. Once baked, sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly over the top.
   2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crispy shell. (If you don’t have a torch, place under a broiler for
      2–3 minutes—watch closely!)
6. Serve & Enjoy!
   1. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
   2. Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra fancy touch!