If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, this Caramel-Bottom French Toast Bake hits every mark. Imagine golden slices of French bread soaked overnight in a vanilla-infused custard, layered over a warm, buttery caramel sauce that turns into a sticky-sweet base during baking. It’s comfort food at its finest — and the best part? You do all the work the night before.

Whether you’re hosting a special occasion, holiday breakfast, or just want a no-fuss weekend treat, this overnight French toast casserole brings elegance to the table without the stress.

 

 

Ingredients

For the Caramel Layer

1 ½ cups Dark brown sugar
1 cup Unsalted butter (2 sticks)
1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract

For the French Toast Layer

1 large loaf French bread (thick loaf)
4 large Eggs
2 cups Whole milk
2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
½ teaspoon Salt

For the Topping

2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
¼ cup Butter, melted
As needed Powdered sugar (for dusting)

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Caramel Base (Night Before)

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of butter and stir in 1½ cups of dark brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble (about 5–6 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and pour the caramel sauce evenly into the prepared baking dish.

This rich caramel base becomes a golden, sticky bottom layer that makes every bite unforgettable.

2. Assemble the French Toast

Slice the French bread into pieces about 1½ inches thick. Arrange the slices tightly in a single layer over the caramel layer — it’s okay if they overlap slightly.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 2 cups of milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices. Lightly press the bread down with a spatula to help soak up the liquid.

3. Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 5 hours). This resting time allows the custard to fully soak into the bread, ensuring a creamy texture after baking.

4. Bake in the Morning

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap.

Drizzle ¼ cup melted butter over the top. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.

Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).

5. Serve and Enjoy

Let the French toast bake cool slightly before slicing. Dust generously with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Serve warm — and prepare for compliments.