Description

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent breakfast dish featuring rich, buttery brioche soaked in a custard mixture, topped with a crispy caramelized sugar crust. Prepped the night before, it’s an indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

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 (or a mix of whole milk and heavy cream)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon salt

For the Bread:

1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into thick slices (about 1-inch thick)

For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

¼ cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Optional Garnishes: Maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream

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Instructions

Prepare the Caramel Base: In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons light corn syrup. Stir until smooth and bubbling. Pour the caramel mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the Bread: Layer the thick slices of brioche or challah over the caramel, slightly overlapping the slices.
Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1 ½ cups half-and-half, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Pour evenly over the bread, ensuring every slice is soaked.
Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Bake the French Toast: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.
Create the Crème Brûlée Topping: Once baked, let it cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle ¼ cup granulated sugar evenly over the top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. Alternatively, place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve warm with optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.

Notes

You can substitute the half-and-half with coconut or almond milk and use dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can broil the sugar topping in the oven for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Feel free to add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chocolate chips between the bread slices for extra flavor.
If you want to double the recipe, use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
This dish works as both a breakfast and dessert option, especially when served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
If you’re short on time, let it soak for at least 2 hours, although overnight soaking gives the best texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 130mg