Description
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect combination of rich, creamy custard and crispy, golden French toast. Made the night before, this indulgent breakfast is easy to prepare and perfect for special occasions or weekend brunch. With a caramelized sugar topping, it’s a decadent treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the French Toast
- 8–10 slices challah or brioche bread (thick-sliced, about 1 to 1.5 inches)
Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)
- Optional garnishes: Fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth. - Soak the Bread:
Arrange the bread slices in a greased 9×13 baking dish, placing them closely together. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices. Press down gently on the bread to ensure it’s fully soaked. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6 hours). - Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Bake the French Toast:
Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it sit for about 10 minutes while the oven heats. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set inside. - Brûlée the Topping:
Once baked, sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top of the French toast. Using a kitchen torch, melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden-brown, crunchy crust. Alternatively, you can use the broiler for 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning. - Serve:
Slice the French toast and serve with optional toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or caramel sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
- Bread Selection: For the best texture, use a rich, sturdy bread like challah or brioche. These types of bread will absorb the custard without falling apart.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the custard and soak the bread overnight for an easy, no-fuss breakfast. The longer it sits, the better the flavor and texture.
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and plant-based milk and cream.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (not including overnight refrigeration)
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~350-400