Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent breakfast dish that combines the creamy richness of crème brûlée with the comforting flavors of classic French toast. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for holiday mornings, brunches, or any time you want to wow your guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the night before for a stress-free morning.
- Luxurious Flavor: A rich custard base with a caramelized topping.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dish that feels gourmet but is easy to prepare.
For another indulgent breakfast idea, try this Pumpkin Banana Bread Recipe, perfect for cozy mornings.
Ingredients for Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
For the Caramel Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp corn syrup
the French Toast
- 1 loaf of French bread or brioche, sliced thickly
- 6 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
How to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Step1: Prepare the caramelized French toast,
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth.
- Pour the caramel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step2: Arrange the Bread
- Place the slices of bread in a single layer over the caramel, overlapping slightly if necessary.
Step3: Make the Custard caramelized French toast,
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread, ensuring each piece is soaked.
Step4: Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
For tips on preparing ahead, explore this guide to Make-Ahead Bread Pudding, another classic dessert you can prepare in advance.
Step5: Bake the caramelized French toast,
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top for a caramelized crust.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
Step6: Serve and Enjoy caramelized French toast,
- Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
- Use a spatula to flip each slice onto a plate, showcasing the caramelized bottom layer.
For another warm and comforting breakfast dish, try this recipe for Fluffy Pancakes, a classic crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success Crème brûlée French toast
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, preventing a soggy texture.
- Even Coating: Press the bread down lightly to ensure all slices soak up the custard.
- Caramel Perfection: Watch the sugar closely while baking to achieve the perfect caramelized crust.
Variations and Substitutions
- Fruit Additions: Layer fresh berries or sliced bananas between the bread slices.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top before baking.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream for a lactose-free version.
For a fruity breakfast option, consider this recipe for Apple Fritters, perfect for pairing with coffee.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit or crispy bacon for a complete breakfast.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain the caramelized texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Crème brûlée French toast
Can I Use Another Type of Bread?
Yes, brioche or challah bread works wonderfully in this recipe.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 minutes to keep the caramelized topping crisp.
Can I Add More Flavor?
Yes! Add a splash of orange zest or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the custard for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional Benefits
- Eggs: High in protein and essential vitamins.
- Milk and Cream: Provide calcium and richness.
- Caramel Layer: Adds a delightful sweetness for an indulgent treat.
For another indulgent dessert breakfast hybrid, try this recipe for Peach Cobbler, a warm and comforting dish.
Conclusion
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence, combining the richness of crème brûlée with the comforting flavors of French toast. With its make-ahead convenience and show-stopping presentation, it’s the perfect dish for any special occasion.
Discover more breakfast ideas in this guide to French toast recipes. Happy cooking and enjoy!