Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines indulgent flavors and textures, from the crispy sugar crust to the creamy custard-soaked bread. It’s perfect for holidays, brunches, or any day when you want to impress. The overnight soak ensures minimal effort in the morning, and the caramelized topping makes it feel like a gourmet treat.
Ingredients
-
For the Caramel Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
-
For the Custard Soak:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
-
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch thick slices
-
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
-
Optional Garnishes:
- Maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Caramel Base: Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and bubbling. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the Bread: Layer the bread slices over the caramel base, slightly overlapping.
- Make the Custard: Whisk eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour evenly over the bread.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until golden and set.
- Create the Crème Brûlée Topping: Sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize with a torch or broiler.
- Serve: Slice and serve with maple syrup, berries, or whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus overnight soak)
Variations
- Flavored Bread: Try using cinnamon swirl or croissant bread for added flavor.
- Toppings: Top with fresh fruit or drizzle with caramel for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- To Store: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave, then add fresh sugar topping before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, French bread or croissants are great alternatives to brioche or challah.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute the half-and-half with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
Can I prepare this dish without the overnight soak?
For best results, let the bread soak overnight to achieve the custard-like texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Conclusion
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence. The creamy, caramelized top and custard-filled bread will make any morning feel luxurious. Whether for a holiday breakfast or a special weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress!
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus overnight soak)
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Make-Ahead Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast combines the rich flavors of French toast and crème brûlée for an indulgent breakfast treat. With a caramelized sugar topping, buttery brioche soaked in a creamy custard, and a soft center, this make-ahead dish is perfect for holidays, brunch, or any morning when you want to impress.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Base:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
For the Custard Soak:
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch thick slices
For the Crème Brûlée Topping:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Optional Garnishes:
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Base: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and bubbling. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the Bread: Layer the bread slices on top of the caramel base, slightly overlapping the slices.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the French toast uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Create the Crème Brûlée Topping: Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top of the baked French toast. Use a kitchen torch or broiler to caramelize the sugar until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Slice the French toast and serve with maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
Notes
- Bread Alternatives: You can use French bread or croissants for a different twist.
- Flavor Variations: Try cinnamon swirl bread for added flavor or drizzle with extra caramel sauce for sweetness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute half-and-half with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter.
