Description

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent, caramelized breakfast treat that’s crisp on the outside and custardy on the inside. The rich, buttery brown sugar topping melts into the bread, creating a brûlée-like finish. Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or a special weekend breakfast!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Caramel Layer

½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tbsp maple syrup or honey

For the French Toast

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
6 large eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt

For the Topping

¼ cup granulated sugar (for brûlée effect)
Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
Fresh berries or whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar and maple syrup until smooth and bubbly. Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.

2. Assemble the French Toast
Arrange the slices of bread on top of the caramel layer, overlapping slightly if needed.

3. Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Pour evenly over the bread, ensuring every slice is soaked. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

4. Bake the French Toast
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until golden and slightly puffed.

5. Create the Brûlée Topping
Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar and broil for 1-2 minutes until caramelized, or use a kitchen torch to brûlée the sugar.

6. Serve and Enjoy
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, or top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

Make It Extra Decadent: Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard.
Crunchy Twist: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the caramel layer.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk and dairy-free butter.
No Overnight Time? Let it soak for at least 1 hour before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (overnight)

Nutrition

Calories: ~450 per serving