Description
Gooey, caramel-y Pull-Apart French Toast made with challah bread, a rich custard, and a decadent caramel base. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, brioche, or other soft bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Base: In a large bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in nuts (optional). Pour into a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the Custard: In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
- Assemble the French Toast: Place bread cubes into the bowl with the custard. Gently toss to coat evenly. Let soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator, covered).
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Gently transfer the custard-soaked bread cubes to the prepared baking dish with the caramel base. Arrange evenly and press down gently.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown and the custard is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
- Cool and Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Invert onto a serving platter (optional). Dust with powdered sugar (optional). Serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Challah and brioche are recommended, but any soft bread like French bread or croissants can be used.
- Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts.
- Fruit: Add fresh or frozen fruit to the custard for extra flavor.
- Chocolate: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the custard.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your liking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the French toast the night before and bake it in the morning. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes