Creme Brulee French Toast

In a small heavy saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup over moderate heat, stirring until smooth and pour into a 17x11x1inch cookie sheet. Arrange bread slices in one layer in pan, squeezing them slightly to fit. (I can usually fit 12 slices.)

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, and vanilla until combined well and pour evenly over bread. Chill bread mixture, covered at least 8 hours and up to 1 day.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and bring bread to room temperature. Bake the bread, uncovered, in middle of oven until puffed and edges are pale golden, 35 to 40 minutes. Serve immediately

Serves 6 to 8