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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 rich and indulgent breakfast that combines the creamy texture of custard with a crisp caramelized topping. Prepared the night before, this recipe is perfect for stress-free mornings, holiday brunches, or special occasions. With buttery caramel on the bottom, soft brioche soaked in vanilla custard, and a crackly sugar crust on top, every bite tastes like dessert for breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale

French Toast Base

  • ½ cup unsalted butter

  • 1 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup

  • 5 large eggs

  • 1½ cups half-and-half

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into thick slices

Crème Brûlée Topping

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

Optional Toppings

  • Maple syrup

  • Fresh berries

  • Powdered sugar

  • Whipped cream

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramel Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and fully combined.
Pour the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Layer the Bread

Arrange the bread slices in a single layer over the caramel base, fitting them snugly.

3. Make the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Slowly pour the custard over the bread, making sure all slices are evenly soaked.

4. Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.

5. Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the dish from the refrigerator and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until puffed, golden, and set in the center.

6. Create the Crème Brûlée Topping

Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top.
Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp, or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.

7. Serve

Let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread: Slightly stale brioche absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.

  • Don’t skip the overnight rest: This step ensures a creamy, custard-like center.

  • Watch the broiler carefully: Sugar caramelizes quickly and can burn fast.

  • Make it extra festive: Add orange zest or a splash of bourbon to the custard for special occasions.

Find it online: https://chocotune.com/overnight-creme-brulee-french-toast/