Ingredients

• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for the topping
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

Preparing the French Toast the Night Before

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
2. Arrange the Bread: Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer inside the baking dish, slightly overlapping if necessary to fit all slices.
3. Make the Custard Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the 5 eggs, 1 cup of half-and-half, 1 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
   • Whisk all the ingredients until they are thoroughly mixed, forming a creamy and well-blended custard mixture.
4. Soak the Bread:
   • Carefully pour the custard mixture over the bread slices in the baking dish, ensuring that every slice is well-coated and will soak up the mixture.
5. Cover and Refrigerate:
   • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill and soak overnight. This step allows the flavors to meld, and the bread to absorb the custard fully.

Baking and Finishing the French Toast in the Morning

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare for Baking:
   • Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap.
   • Dot the top of the bread with small pieces of the 1/4 cup unsalted butter.
   • Sprinkle an additional layer of sugar on top of the bread to create a caramelized finish.
3. Bake the French Toast:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the French toast is puffed up, golden brown, and fully set.
4. Caramelize the Topping:
   • Remove the French toast from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
   • Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top, then briefly place it under the broiler. Watch closely as it caramelizes into a golden crust.
5. Serve: Serve the crème brûlée French toast warm with a side of maple syrup for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing