Caramel Bottom French Toast Bake (Make-Ahead Breakfast Magic)
Before we talk caramel (because wow 😍), let me say thank you. Recipes like this are meant to be shared — the kind you make once and suddenly everyone asks for it again. This Caramel Bottom French Toast Bake is warm, indulgent, and pure comfort, especially when mornings feel busy or holidays roll around.
Soft, custardy French toast bakes over a rich caramel layer that turns into a golden, buttery sauce as it cooks. And the best part? You prep it the night before. Morning-you will be very grateful.
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Overview of the Recipe
This is a make-ahead baked French toast casserole with a gooey caramel base and a lightly spiced, buttery topping.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Prep the night before
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Feeds a crowd
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Rich caramel flavor
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Perfect for holidays and brunch
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Simple ingredients, big payoff
What Does It Taste Like?
Sweet, buttery caramel on the bottom, soft custard-soaked bread in the middle, and a lightly crisp cinnamon-sugar top. It’s like French toast and sticky buns had the most delicious baby.
Benefits of This Recipe
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Stress-free mornings
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Uses day-old bread
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Easy to customize
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Bakes beautifully every time
🛒 Ingredients List
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1 large loaf French bread
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1½ cups dark brown sugar
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1 cup butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel)
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4 large eggs
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2 cups milk
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ cup butter, melted
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Powdered sugar, for dusting
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Saucepan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Plastic wrap
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
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Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
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Swap milk for half-and-half for extra richness
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Use brioche or challah instead of French bread
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Add orange zest for a bright twist
👩🍳 How to Make Caramel Bottom French Toast Bake
