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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent and easy-to-prepare breakfast recipe that combines the creamy custard richness of classic crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast. Soaked overnight to ensure maximum flavor and moisture, this dish features thick slices of brioche or challah bread baked until golden and topped with a caramelized sugar crust for a sophisticated crunch. Perfect for weekend brunches or special mornings, it’s an impressive yet effortless make-ahead treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • Thick-cut brioche or challah bread slices (about 1 loaf, 1.5 to 2 inches thick)

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for custard)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but recommended)

Topping

  • 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
  • Butter (for greasing the baking dish, about 1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups heavy cream, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg until smooth and fully combined. This custard will soak into the bread overnight, allowing flavors to develop.
  2. Assemble the Bread and Custard: Lightly butter a baking dish. Arrange thick slices of brioche or challah evenly in the dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently to make sure all slices are saturated. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the custard absorb thoroughly.
  3. Bake the French Toast: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the custard-soaked bread from the fridge and bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the custard is set and the bread is golden and slightly puffed.
  4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Evenly sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the baked French toast. Using a kitchen torch, gently caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden crust. If a torch is unavailable, place under a broiler briefly—watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Use thick, dense bread like brioche or challah for the best custard absorption without falling apart.
  • Refrigerate overnight to allow custard to soak fully for creamy, tender bites.
  • If using a kitchen torch, keep the flame moving evenly to avoid burning the caramelized sugar.
  • Watch baking time carefully to prevent drying out; look for set custard and golden edges.
  • For deeper caramel flavor in the topping, mix some brown sugar with granulated sugar.

Nutrition

Keywords: Overnight French Toast, Crème Brûlée, Breakfast, Brunch, Custard, Caramelized Sugar, Make Ahead, Brioche French Toast

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