1 stick unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
1 loaf French bread
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 teaspoon Grand Marnier
1/4 teaspoon salt

In a small heavy saucepan melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup over moderate heat, stirring until smooth and pour into a 13"x9"x2" baking dish. Cut six 1-inch thick slices from center portion of bread, reversing ends for another use. Arrange bread slices in one layer in baking dish, squeezing them slightly to fit.

In a bowl whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, Grand Marnier and salt until combined well and pour evenly over bread. Chill bread mixture, covered, at least 8 hours and up to 24 hours.

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

[Blue Max Innn] (via Nina)