# Ingredient List:
→ Main Components
01 - 1 loaf French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
02 - 5 large eggs
03 - 1 cup half-and-half
04 - 1 cup whole milk
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
09 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
→ To Serve
10 - Maple syrup
# Directions:
01 - Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer so they are slightly overlapping if needed.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
03 - Pour custard evenly over bread slices, making sure every piece is coated. Gently press bread into custard using a spatula or clean hands.
04 - Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow bread to fully absorb custard.
05 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove dish from refrigerator and discard plastic wrap. Dot bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until puffed and golden.
06 - Remove baked French toast from the oven and let cool slightly. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the bread surface, then caramelize using a kitchen torch or broiler until sugar is golden and crisp.
07 - Allow French toast to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with maple syrup.
