Overnight French Toast Crème Brûlée

This Overnight French Toast with Crème Brûlée Twist transforms a classic breakfast into a luxurious treat. By soaking the bread overnight in a rich custard, it develops a soft, velvety center, while the caramelized sugar topping offers a delightful crunch. Perfect for stress-free mornings, holiday brunches, or special gatherings, this recipe is as impressive as it is easy to prepare ahead of time.

I started making this recipe for holiday brunches, and now it’s the first thing my guests ask for whenever they come over.

Ingredients

• One loaf French bread: sliced into one-inch thick pieces provides the perfect sturdy base. Day-old bread absorbs the custard best without becoming mushy.
• Five large eggs: create richness and structure for the custard so it sets just right.
• One cup half-and-half: adds a creamy texture that’s richer than milk alone.
• One cup whole milk: lightens the custard and balances creaminess. Choose fresh, high-quality dairy for best flavor.
• One teaspoon vanilla extract: brings warm sweetness. Pure vanilla is always worth the extra cost.
• Two-thirds cup granulated sugar: sweetens the custard just enough without overpowering.
• Quarter teaspoon ground cinnamon: adds aromatic warmth that complements the vanilla.
• Quarter teaspoon ground nutmeg: contributes a subtle spice note to elevate the flavor.
• One-quarter cup unsalted butter: for the topping, dotted over the bread before baking to add richness and help caramelization.
• Extra granulated sugar on top: is essential for creating the signature crisp crème brûlée crust.
• Maple syrup: is perfect for serving, adding a natural sweetness that enhances every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the French Toast Base:

Butter the baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and arrange the sliced bread in a single, neat layer. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until completely combined and smooth.

Soak and Refrigerate Overnight:

Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, pressing them gently to ensure each piece is fully submerged and moist. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least eight hours to let the flavors blend and the bread fully soak in the custard.

Bake the French Toast:

Next morning, bring the dish out of the fridge and preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Dot small bits of butter across the top of the custard-soaked bread and sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the surface turns golden brown and the custard is set but still slightly soft inside.

Caramelize the Sugar Topping:

Allow the baked French toast to cool slightly to prevent the sugar from melting right away. Sprinkle a generous amount of granulated sugar evenly over the top. Place the dish under a broiler for one to two minutes until the sugar liquefies and crisps into a caramelized crust. Alternatively, a kitchen torch gives you precise control for an even finish.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve by drizzling warm maple syrup over the top and adding your favorite accompaniments.

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Storage tips

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes to regain crispness. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Ingredient substitutions

Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk works well as dairy replacements to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Swap butter for a plant-based alternative or coconut oil for the topping. Feel free to try challah or brioche instead of French bread for a slightly different texture and sweetness.

Serving suggestions

Pair with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a bright, fresh touch. Whipped cream or mascarpone adds decadence, while crispy bacon or sausage provides a savory balance. A citrus salad cuts through the richness nicely. Hot coffee or fresh orange juice rounds out a classic brunch spread beautifully.

Cultural context

French toast itself has legendary roots dating back centuries across European cuisines. This crème brûlée inspired twist adds a layer of French dessert flair, combining breakfast and dessert traditions in an innovative way. The caramelized sugar topping pays homage to classic French custards but elevates a humble morning staple.

Pro Tips

• Use day-old bread for the best texture and custard absorption.
• Let eggs and dairy come to room temperature for a smoother custard mix.
• Press bread slices firmly into the custard to ensure every piece soaks evenly before refrigerating.

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What bread works best for this dish?

French bread, brioche, or challah are ideal as they soak custard well without becoming mushy.

→ How long should the bread soak?

Soaking overnight allows for full custard absorption, creating a tender texture. A minimum of 30 minutes works if short on time.

→ How is the caramelized sugar topping achieved?

Sprinkle sugar evenly over the baked bread, then caramelize under a broiler for 1-2 minutes or use a kitchen torch for a crisp, golden crust.

→ Can this be made dairy-free?

Yes. Replace half-and-half and milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

→ How can I prevent the dish from being soggy?

Use thick, slightly stale bread and avoid oversoaking. Bake until the center is set but still moist, and allow it to rest before serving.