Name: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter – Adds richness to the caramel base.; 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully.; 2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Helps create a smooth caramel sauce.; 5 large eggs – Forms the custard base for the French toast.; 1 ½ cups half-and-half – Ensures a creamy texture (substitute with whole milk if needed).; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.; ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.; 1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into thick slices – The best bread options for a soft, rich texture.; ¼ cup granulated sugar – For the signature crispy brûlée topping.

Description

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect indulgent breakfast for special occasions, holiday mornings, or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. This recipe combines the richness of classic French toast with a decadent caramelized topping, creating a luxurious breakfast that tastes just like crème brûlée. The best part? You can prepare it the night before, making your morning hassle-free!

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup unsalted butter – Adds richness to the caramel base.
1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully.
2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Helps create a smooth caramel sauce.
5 large eggs – Forms the custard base for the French toast.
1 ½ cups half-and-half – Ensures a creamy texture (substitute with whole milk if needed).
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice.
¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
1 loaf brioche or challah, cut into thick slices – The best bread options for a soft, rich texture.
¼ cup granulated sugar – For the signature crispy brûlée topping.

Optional Toppings: Maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and well combined. Pour the caramel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly over the bottom.

Step 2: Layer the Bread

Arrange the thick slices of brioche or challah over the caramel sauce in a single layer. Try to fit them snugly together without overlapping too much.

Step 3: Make the Custard

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Lightly press the bread down with a spatula to help absorb the custard.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the delicious custard and flavors.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the French toast is golden brown and set.

Step 7: Create the Crème Brûlée Topping

Once baked, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and crisp. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes—just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the French toast into portions and serve warm. Add your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes