If you ever thought French toast couldn’t get any more decadent, wait until you try my Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe. This dreamy breakfast casserole version marries the rich, custardy vibes of crème brûlée with the comforting, tender embrace of baked French toast soaked overnight. The result? A golden, caramelized masterpiece that’s as visually stunning as it is indulgently delicious. Imagine waking up to the aroma of buttery brown sugar caramel and cinnamon then digging into slices that are crisp on the edges, tender inside, and soaked with creamy vanilla custard. This recipe elevates weekend brunch or holiday mornings to something spectacular and absolutely worth savoring.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To pull off this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe, you’ll use straightforward ingredients that combine to create layers of flavor and luxurious texture. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the buttery caramel base or the custard soak that delivers that classic crème brûlée creaminess.
- Brown sugar (1 cup packed): Provides the deep caramel sweetness that forms the base layer and tops the dish.
- Unsalted butter (0.5 cup): Adds richness and helps create that luscious caramel sauce with the brown sugar.
- Light corn syrup (2 tablespoons): Keeps the caramel smooth and glossy without crystallizing.
- Brioche or challah bread (1 loaf, sliced thick): These soft, slightly sweet breads soak up the custard perfectly for tender results.
- Large eggs (6): The foundation of the custard, providing structure and richness.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the heavy cream and eggs.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Elevates the custard to silky, indulgent levels.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the custard with warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (0.5 teaspoon): Offers a subtle spice that complements the caramel beautifully.
- Salt (0.25 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet notes and balances the flavors.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving): Adds a delicate touch of sweetness and pretty presentation.
How to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base
Start by melting butter, brown sugar, and light corn syrup together over medium heat until smooth and glossy. Pour this luscious caramel mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. This layer will create a beautiful, crisp caramel top when inverted after baking.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread
Layer your thick slices of brioche or challah bread in a single layer over the caramel sauce. It’s okay if the pieces slightly overlap—this ensures every bite is soaked and delicious.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until perfectly combined. This custard mixture is what makes the French toast so incredibly creamy and rich.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard evenly over the arranged bread, gently pressing down to help each slice absorb the liquid thoroughly. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into the refrigerator to soak overnight. This step is key to getting that custardy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
The next morning, let the dish sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to take the chill off. Then bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes to let the custard set, followed by uncovering the dish for another 15 to 20 minutes. This final bake crisps the top and reveals that irresistible golden finish.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the French toast to rest for 5 minutes after baking. To showcase that gorgeous caramel layer, invert portions onto plates so the caramel side is on top, or simply serve it straight from the dish for a rustic touch.
How to Serve Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your serving with a dusting of powdered sugar and a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of whipped cream adds an extra touch of luxury without overpowering the caramel richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this custardy delight with crisp bacon or sausage links for a savory balance. A fresh fruit salad or citrusy orange segments also help cut through the sweetness, providing a well-rounded breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, consider serving the French toast casserole in individual ramekins for a personal crème brûlée effect. Alternatively, drizzle warmed caramel or a berry coulis on top for added decadence. Don’t shy away from sprinkling some crushed toasted nuts for texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The custard-soaked bread holds its moisture well, so reheated slices remain tender and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this French toast by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen slices last up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this cozy breakfast anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-12 minutes. This method helps retain the crisp edges and creamy pieces inside, restoring that freshly baked appeal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their texture and sweetness, you can use other sturdy breads like French bread or Texas toast. Just make sure it’s thickly sliced and preferably a day old for the best soaking results.
Is it necessary to soak the bread overnight?
Yes, soaking overnight allows the custard to fully penetrate the bread, resulting in a luxuriously creamy interior. If you’re short on time, a few hours can work but won’t achieve the same custard depth.
Can I prepare this recipe without the corn syrup?
Light corn syrup helps keep the caramel smooth and prevents crystallization, but you can substitute with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor and texture, though it may alter the caramel’s finish.
How do I know when the French toast is done baking?
The custard should be fully set and no longer jiggly in the center, and the top should be golden and puffed. A gentle poke in the middle should feel firm but not dry.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
To adapt this recipe, try using plant-based milk and cream alternatives, plus an egg substitute suitable for baking. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may differ from the classic version.
Final Thoughts
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite for good reason. It’s a divine and comforting way to start your day or impress guests with a show-stopping brunch. Once you try the combination of buttery caramel, tender custard, and fluffy bread, you’ll understand why this recipe is a keeper. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you deserve a morning treat this unforgettable.
Print
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: Overnight plus 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent breakfast casserole combining thick slices of brioche or challah bread soaked overnight in a rich custard, baked with a luscious caramelized brown sugar and butter base. The result is a golden, puffed, and creamy delight that’s perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Caramel Base
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
Bread Layer
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Make the caramel base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with the brown sugar and light corn syrup, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Carefully pour this hot caramel into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Arrange the bread: Layer the thick slices of brioche or challah bread over the caramel in a single layer. Slightly overlap the slices if necessary to cover the surface evenly.
- Prepare the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully blended and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing down gently to ensure that all pieces absorb the custard. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak and the flavors to meld.
- Preheat and rest: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to take the chill off.
- Bake covered: Bake the French toast casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes. This initial baking ensures even cooking and custard set.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden on top, and set in the center.
- Rest and serve: Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving. You may invert portions onto plates so that the caramel side is on top or serve directly from the baking dish. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy with fresh berries or whipped cream for a balanced richness.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture as it soaks the custard without becoming too mushy.
- Fresh berries or whipped cream complement the rich caramel base and add a fresh contrast.
- This dish can be prepared the night before for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.
