Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole

Introduction

Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole is a luxurious and indulgent breakfast dish, perfect for a special occasion or a weekend brunch. Combining the classic flavors of crème brûlée with the comfort of French toast, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional breakfast fare. It’s particularly appealing for women over 35 looking for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dish to impress family or guests.

Ingredients List

• 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the topping:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preparation Steps

1. Bread Layering: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with butter. Arrange the bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping.
2. Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, 1 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Pour and Soak: Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor absorption.
4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Baking: Bake the casserole for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
6. Sugar Crust: Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the baked casserole.
7. Broil for Brûlée Effect: Place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or use a kitchen torch, until the sugar caramelizes and forms a crispy top.

Cooking Notes

• Stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard more effectively.
• Watch closely during the broiling step to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

1. Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a tart contrast.
2. Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
3. Maple Syrup: Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
4. Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a beautiful finish.
5. Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm fruit compote for added flavor.

Tips

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• To avoid soggy French toast, don’t skip the soaking step.

Cooking Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes (plus soaking time).
• Cook: 50 minutes.
• Total: 65 minutes.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving.
• Protein: 10 g.
• Fat: 25 g.
• Carbohydrates: 35 g.

Storage Advice

1. Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Reheating: Reheat in the oven until warm.
3. Freezing: This dish can be frozen before the brûlée step for up to a month.
4. Avoid Moisture: Keep the dish covered to prevent it from drying out.
5. Serve Warm: For best taste, serve it warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular bread instead of brioche or challah?
   Yes, but the dish may be less rich and fluffy.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Substitute the milk and cream with your preferred dairy-free alternatives.
3. Can I add fruit into the casserole?
   Certainly! Berries or sliced apples can be a great addition.
4. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for the sugar crust?
   The broiler in your oven works as an effective alternative.
5. How do I know when the custard is set?
   The casserole should be firm to the touch, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
6. Can I prepare this the night before?
   Yes, it’s actually recommended for the bread to fully absorb the custard.
7. Is it possible to over-soak the bread?
   Over-soaking can make the bread too mushy, so stick to the recommended time.
8. Can I use a sugar substitute for the brûlée topping?
   Granulated sugar works best for caramelization, but a coarse sugar substitute may work.