Overnight Caramel Strata
A decadent overnight caramel bread pudding with rich caramel flavor, soft bread, and a luscious custard, perfect for brunch or dessert gatherings that enjoy sweet, comforting treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan and stir over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Pour the caramel mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan and coat the bottom evenly.
- Arrange 6 slices of bread in a single layer on top of the caramel layer, trimming bread to fit as needed.
- Cover with the remaining bread slices.
- Whisk together the remaining butter, milk, eggs, vanilla, and salt, then pour over the layered bread.
- Cover and chill the assembled dish overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes or until bread is puffed and light golden brown.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with fruit before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brioche or challah bread instead of white bread. If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the whole milk. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the brown sugar slightly if desired. Make sure to cover the strata well while chilling overnight to prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
This Overnight Caramel Strata pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside a light yogurt for added creaminess. For a complete breakfast, consider adding a side of crispy bacon or sausage. You can also browse more American recipes to find delightful brunch options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Caramel Strata contains roughly 697 calories, with 11g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (29% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, the Overnight Caramel Strata is designed to be prepared the night before. After assembling, simply cover it and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard mixture, resulting in a deliciously soft texture.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
If you prefer not to use corn syrup, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor, but it will still create a lovely caramel effect. Adjust the sweetness to taste if necessary.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free bread instead of regular white bread. Ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well. The cooking process remains the same, and you'll still enjoy a deliciously decadent dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).