Description
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a rich, custardy breakfast bake with caramelized brown sugar, soft brioche bread, and a silky vanilla custard soaked overnight. A decadent treat perfect for holidays, brunch, or a cozy weekend morning.
Ingredients
4 cups brioche or challah bread, cut into thick slices
5 large eggs
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
3/4 cup brown sugar (divided use)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup butter with 1/2 cup brown sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and bubbly. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange thick slices of brioche or challah over the caramel layer, slightly overlapping if needed.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, 1/4 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard over the bread. Gently press bread to ensure even soaking. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
5. In the morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit at room temp for 20 minutes.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and custard is set.
7. Let cool slightly. Serve warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture—it holds its shape and prevents sogginess.
Don’t skip the rest time at room temp before baking; it helps with even baking.
For a brûlée crunch, sprinkle extra brown sugar on top and broil for 1–2 minutes after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: French toast, brunch, make-ahead breakfast