In a microwave-safe bowl, combine brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup; microwave on HIGH for 45 to 55 seconds or until butter is melted and sugar is dissolved (or melt in a saucepan over medium-low heat). Stir well and pour into a baking dish coated with cooking spray. Arrange bread pieces evenly over butter mixture.
In a large bowl, whisk eggs until beaten. Whisk in half and half and vanilla. Pour evenly over bread, pressing bread down until moistened.
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Uncover baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until set and golden brown. Sift confectioners’ sugar over top. Serve immediately.
Notes
TIFFY’S TIPS:
This recipe calls for packed brown sugar. This means firmly pressing the ingredient into the measuring cup to remove air pockets and fill it to the exact level.
I love topping each slice with berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Both challah and brioche are great breads for French toast and this recipe. They are enriched breads with a rich flavor and a soft, fluffy texture that becomes custard-like when cooked.
This recipe freezes well. Just thaw and pop in the oven.
This recipe is adjusted from my cookbook as I have tweaked through the years.