1/3cupbrown sugar(dark, packed—may use light brown sugar)
2tspvanilla extract
1/2tspsea salt
1loafbrioche bread(day-old and sliced thick)
8eggs
1 1/4cupmilk(any kind or dairy-free)
Powdered sugar and cinnamon(for sprinkling )
Maple syrup(for serving)
Instructions
Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Cut the brioche slices in half diagonally to make triangles and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast until dry and very lightly golden-brown, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
Melt butter in the microwave. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth. Let cool.
Add the eggs, 2 or 3 at a time and whisk until smooth. Continue until all of the eggs have been whisked.
Pour in the milk and whisk to combine.
Carefully pour the egg mixture over all the slices of French toast.
Cover baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate 1 hour to overnight.
To Bake the French Toast:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake French toast for 40 minutes, covered for the first 20 minutes. Remove the cover for the last 20 minutes.
Before serving sprinkle powdered sugar and cinnamon over the top. Serve with warm maple syrup.
Notes
The nutritional information is for the prepared French toast only and does not include the maple syrup or other toppings.
Use dry, day-old brioche bread. Fresh brioche can turn soggy. For best results, use day-old bread, leave it sitting out overnight, or toast the slices in the oven until dry and slightly golden.
Use a large brioche loaf (about 16 oz). If your loaf is smaller, reduce the custard slightly or increase the bread to avoid a runny texture.
If the center still looks wet after 40 minutes of baking, cover lightly with foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the custard is fully set.
This French toast can be made the night before and baked in the morning. Be sure to cover it tightly in the fridge while it rests.
If you're concerned about a runny texture, whisk 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour or cornstarch into the custard for added stability (not required).
Let the French toast rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.