Description
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe is a decadent take on a breakfast classic, combining the creamy richness of custard-soaked bread with the crisp caramelized topping of a crème brûlée. It’s the perfect dish for special occasions, holiday brunches, or leisurely weekend mornings.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
5 large eggs
1 cup half-and-half
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the French bread slices in a single layer.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
Pour this mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is well-soaked.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove plastic wrap.
Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and a sprinkle of sugar.
Bake for 35-40 minutes until the toast is golden and puffed.
Let it cool for a few minutes, sprinkle extra sugar on top, and broil briefly to caramelize.
Notes
- Bread Selection:
Use slightly stale bread for the best texture. Thick slices of French bread, brioche, or challah work best as they hold up to the custard without becoming too soggy. - Custard Tips:
Whisk the custard thoroughly to ensure the sugar and spices dissolve evenly. Adding a dash of orange zest or almond extract can give the custard a unique flavor twist. - Overnight Soaking:
Be sure to press the bread gently into the custard during assembly to ensure every slice is thoroughly soaked. This step ensures a creamy interior after baking. - Caramelized Topping:
A thin, even layer of sugar on top is key for achieving that signature crunch. Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning. - Storage and Reheating:
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy topping. - Dietary Adjustments:
For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk in place of the half-and-half and milk. Gluten-free bread can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.