Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Here’s a detailed recipe for Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast that’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Overnight Soak: 6–8 hours
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the French Toast:

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, sliced thick (about 8 slices)

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ cup whole milk

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)

• Pinch of salt

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping (Crème Brûlée Style):

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• Whipped cream

• Maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Prepare the custard mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and a pinch of salt until well combined.

2. Assemble the French toast:
Place the sliced bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all slices are well soaked. Press down lightly with a spatula to help the bread absorb the custard.

3. Refrigerate overnight:
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, giving it a rich, creamy texture.

4. Preheat the oven:
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Bake the French toast:
Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the edges of the bread are golden brown.

6. Caramelize the sugar topping:
Once baked, sprinkle ¼ cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the French toast. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.

7. Serve:
Allow the French toast to cool slightly so the caramelized sugar hardens. Cut into portions and serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Tips for Perfect Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast:

1. Use thick, sturdy bread: Brioche or challah works best as it soaks up the custard without falling apart.

2. Don’t skip the soak: Overnight soaking makes it extra creamy and custardy, like crème brûlée.

3. Torch carefully: Move the torch continuously to avoid burning the sugar.

4. Make it ahead: This dish can be prepped the night before and baked fresh in the morning for an effortless brunch.