Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This recipe combines creamy custard soaked bread with a golden, caramelized finish, perfect for a make-ahead brunch treat.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bread
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Step 2: Arrange the bread slices in a baking dish and pour the custard mixture over them, ensuring all the bread is soaked.
3. Step 3: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to let the custard fully absorb into the bread.
4. Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the soaked bread for 45–50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
5. Step 5: Serve warm, optionally topped with a sprinkle of sugar and a torch to create the caramelized crème brûlée finish.

Tips & Variations

• Use thick-cut brioche or challah bread for a richer texture.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth and flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk.
• If you don’t have a kitchen torch, a quick broil in the oven can caramelize the sugar on top.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain the custardy texture. It is best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use day-old bread for this recipe?

Yes, day-old or slightly stale bread works best as it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar?

You can place the French toast under a broiler for a few minutes to melt and brown the sugar, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 51 reviews

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious breakfast dish that combines the creamy custard texture of crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of French toast. It is assembled the night before and baked in the morning until golden and custardy, making it perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 8 hours 60 minutes (including overnight refrigeration)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Bread

• 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)

Custard Mixture

• 5 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth, ensuring the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Assemble the French toast: Place the slices of bread in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing down gently to ensure they are fully soaked.
3. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard thoroughly.
4. Bake the French toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set, and the top is golden and slightly caramelized.
5. Serve and enjoy: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with a little extra sugar and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the top like traditional crème brûlée. Serve warm.

Notes

• For best results, use day-old bread slightly dried out to absorb the custard better.
• You can use half-and-half or cream instead of whole milk for a richer custard.
• If you like a crispier top, sprinkle sugar on top before baking or torching.
• Serve with fresh berries or maple syrup for added flavor.

Keywords: Overnight French Toast, Crème Brûlée French Toast, baked French toast, custard soaked bread, breakfast casserole