Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 32 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 8 hours 60 minutes (including overnight soaking)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-American

Description

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent breakfast casserole that combines the creamy custard flavors of classic crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast. Bread slices are soaked overnight in a rich mixture of eggs, half-and-half, milk, and warm spices, then baked to golden perfection. The dish is finished with a caramelized sugar topping that adds a crisp, brûlée-like crust, perfect for serving alongside maple syrup and fresh berries.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add richness to the final dish.
  2. Arrange the Bread: Place the sliced French bread in a single layer in the baking dish, slightly overlapping slices if needed to fit them all.
  3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until fully combined.
  4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is thoroughly soaked. Press the bread gently down into the custard to help it absorb the liquid.
  5. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak.
  6. Preheat the Oven: The next morning, take the dish out of the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Prepare for Baking: Remove the plastic wrap, dot the top of the soaked bread with small pieces of unsalted butter, and sprinkle with a little granulated sugar.
  8. Bake: Bake the dish for 35 to 40 minutes until the French toast is puffed up, set in the center, and golden brown on top.
  9. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Let the dish cool slightly, then sprinkle additional sugar evenly over the top.
  10. Broil to Brûlée: Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the sugar melts and forms a crisp, caramelized crust similar to crème brûlée. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  11. Serve: Spoon portions onto plates and serve immediately with maple syrup and optional accompaniments such as fresh berries or whipped cream.
  12. Enjoy: Savor the rich and creamy custard combined with the crunchy caramelized sugar topping in this luxurious twist on French toast.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for better custard absorption and texture.
  • Ensure to watch the sugar closely while broiling to prevent burning.
  • Feel free to add fresh berries or whipped cream as toppings for added flavor and presentation.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute half-and-half and milk with coconut milk or almond milk and use dairy-free butter.
  • This dish can be assembled the night before for convenience, making it perfect for holiday or weekend brunches.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/overnight-creme-brulee-french-toast-recipe/