Description
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast transforms breakfast into a gourmet delight with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Caramel Layer
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tbsp light corn syrup
For the French Toast
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thickly
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Topping
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for caramelized topping)
- Optional: Fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup
Instructions
Make the Caramel Base
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until smooth and bubbling.
- Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
2. Arrange the Bread
- Place the slices of brioche or challah in the baking dish on top of the caramel layer, slightly overlapping.
3. Prepare the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring they are well-soaked.
4. Chill Overnight
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
5. Bake the French Toast
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and puffed.
6. Add the Crème Brûlée Topping
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the baked French toast and broil for 1-2 minutes until the sugar caramelizes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the French toast cool slightly before serving. Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.