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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast


  • Author: Nora Sinclair
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Wake up to the indulgent delight of Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast, a rich and comforting breakfast perfect for lazy mornings or festive brunches. This easy make-ahead recipe combines thick slices of buttery bread soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, baked to perfection, and topped with a caramelized sugar crust that crackles with every bite. It’s a luxurious yet simple dish that guarantees to impress your guests or elevate your weekend mornings. Whether you’re seeking a special holiday breakfast, a decadent brunch centerpiece, or just fresh breakfast ideas, this recipe has you covered.


Ingredients

1 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons corn syrup

1 loaf French bread or brioche, sliced

5 large eggs

1 1/2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Powdered sugar and fresh berries for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Caramel Base: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, melted butter, and corn syrup. Stir until smooth and bubbly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange the Bread: Slice the bread into 1-inch pieces and arrange them in the baking dish, slightly overlapping.
  3. Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, salt, and optional cinnamon. Pour evenly over the bread, ensuring all slices are soaked. Press gently with a spatula to help absorption.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
  5. Bake the French Toast: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove from the fridge and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
  6. Caramelize the Top: Sprinkle granulated sugar over the baked French toast and broil for 1-2 minutes until the sugar forms a crackling golden crust.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries for garnish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast