Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
A decadent and indulgent twist on classic French toast, this make-ahead dish features thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, topped with a caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for brunch or special occasions, this recipe combines the elegance of crème brûlée with the comfort of French toast.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish (or similar size)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef's torch (for caramelizing sugar, optional)
- Spatula
- Knife (for slicing bread)
Ingredients
- For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar plus extra for topping
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- For the Caramelized Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for sprinkling on top before serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Mixture : In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the French Toast :
- Arrange the bread slices in a single layer in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. If needed, cut some slices to fit the dish snugly.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all slices are soaked. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4–6 hours).
- Preheat the Oven : The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
- Bake the French Toast : Bake the dish uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Caramelize the Sugar :
- Once baked, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the French toast.
- Use a chef's torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden-brown crust. Alternatively, place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve : Slice into portions and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
For best results, use stale or slightly dried-out bread, as it absorbs the custard better.
If you don’t have a chef's torch, the broiler method works well but requires careful monitoring to prevent burning.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
If you don’t have a chef's torch, the broiler method works well but requires careful monitoring to prevent burning.
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.