Overnight Caramel Strata

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Servings: 6 Difficulty: Advanced
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A rich, custardy bread pudding with a gooey caramel base, perfect for weekend brunches.
Overnight Caramel Strata - Bon Appetit recipe image

This overnight caramel strata is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast treat. It features a luscious layer of homemade dark brown sugar caramel at the bottom, topped with sandwich bread soaked in a spiced egg and milk custard. After chilling overnight, the bread absorbs the flavors completely, resulting in a tender, cake-like texture that bakes up golden and puffed. The contrast between the soft custard and the sticky, sweet caramel base is irresistible. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that feels indulgent without requiring constant attention. Serve it warm with fresh berries for a balanced finish. Ideal for holiday mornings, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with minimal morning effort.

Overnight Caramel Strata - Bon Appetit recipe image
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Overnight Caramel Strata

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 6 Calories: 1262.2

Description

This overnight caramel strata is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast treat. It features a luscious layer of homemade dark brown sugar caramel at the bottom, topped with sandwich bread soaked in a spiced egg and milk custard. After chilling overnight, the bread absorbs the flavors completely, resulting in a tender, cake-like texture that bakes up golden and puffed. The contrast between the soft custard and the sticky, sweet caramel base is irresistible. It&# 226;ÂÂs an elegant yet simple dish that feels indulgent without requiring constant attention. Serve it warm with fresh berries for a balanced finish. Ideal for holiday mornings, special occasions, or when you want to impress guests with minimal morning effort.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Combine brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup in a heavy small saucepan.
  2. Stir mixture over medium-low heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Bring mixture to a boil.
  4. Pour caramel mixture into a 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish.
  5. Tilt dish to coat the bottom evenly; allow to cool slightly.
  6. Arrange 6 bread slices in a single layer atop the caramel, trimming bread to fit if necessary.
  7. Cover with the remaining 6 bread slices, trimming to fit.
  8. Whisk milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt in a bowl until well blended.
  9. Pour egg mixture evenly over the bread layers.
  10. Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow bread to absorb the custard.
  11. Preheat oven to 350ðF (177ðC).
  12. Bake strata uncovered until bread is puffed and light golden brown, about 40 minutes.
  13. Let stand for 5 minutes to set.
  14. Cut into 6 portions.
  15. Using a spatula, invert each portion onto a plate so that the caramel side faces up.
  16. Garnish with fresh fruit and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 1262.2kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 33.9g53%
Saturated Fat 17.1g86%
Cholesterol 64.5mg22%
Sodium 1513.7mg64%
Total Carbohydrate 211.3g71%
Dietary Fiber 8.1g33%
Sugars 76.2g
Protein 27.3g55%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

The strata must be refrigerated overnight (or for at least 8 hours) for the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a moist and cohesive texture.

Use high-quality sandwich bread for best results; stale bread can also work well as it absorbs liquid more effectively.

Be careful when inverting the portions, as the caramel is hot and sticky. Let the strata rest for the full 5 minutes to help it release from the pan.

This recipe can be adapted by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for extra warmth.

Keywords: caramel strata, overnight breakfast, bread pudding, brunch recipe, brown sugar caramel, custard bread, make ahead breakfast, vegetarian dessert, holiday morning, easy baking, comfort food, indulgent treat
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