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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
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This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe combines the rich creaminess of classic crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of French toast. It’s an indulgent, easy-to-prepare breakfast or brunch option where thick slices of brioche or challah are soaked overnight in a luscious custard made with eggs, heavy cream, vanilla, and sugar. Baked until set and topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust, this dish is perfect for a stress-free morning treat that delights the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Bread

  • 1 loaf thick bread slices (brioche or challah, about 8–10 slices)

Garnish

  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • Fresh berries (optional)
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and fully combined. This rich custard will soak into the bread, delivering the creamy signature flavor.
  2. Arrange and soak the bread: Butter a baking dish and layer 8-10 thick slices of brioche or challah inside. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently so every slice is fully soaked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow deep absorption.
  3. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
  4. Create the crème brûlée topping: Evenly sprinkle an additional layer of granulated sugar over the baked French toast. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until a crisp, golden crust forms. If you don’t have a torch, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes, then dust lightly with powdered sugar. Slice and serve warm, optionally topped with fresh berries or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly stale brioche or challah for the best custard absorption without falling apart.
  • Chilling overnight is key to deeply infuse the custard flavor into the bread.
  • Spread the granulated sugar evenly on top before caramelizing for a consistent crust.
  • If using the broiler, watch closely to avoid burning the sugar.
  • Use a kitchen torch in a well-ventilated area and keep flammable materials away.
  • Prepare the dish the night before to save time and enjoy a stress-free morning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Overnight French Toast, Crème Brûlée French Toast, Custard-soaked French Toast, Brioche French Toast, Challah French Toast, Breakfast Brunch Recipe, Caramelized Sugar Topping

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/overnight-crme-brle-french-toast-recipe/