Description
Wake up to a breakfast dream with this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast—an indulgent twist on the classic that delivers caramelized, custardy perfection. Perfect for holidays, special brunches, or lazy weekends, this easy recipe is prepared the night before, so you can simply bake and serve in the morning. Thick slices of brioche soak in a rich vanilla custard and bake over a brown sugar butter layer that turns into a silky caramel topping. It’s a quick breakfast idea that looks fancy, tastes heavenly, and takes minimal morning effort. Ideal for anyone looking for brunch ideas, easy food ideas, or a decadent breakfast casserole the whole family will rave about.
Ingredients
1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 12 slices)
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat until smooth and bubbling. Pour the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Slice the brioche or challah into thick pieces, around 1 to 1.5 inches. Arrange them in the pan over the caramel base.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon if using.
4. Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices. Gently press the bread down to help it soak. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
5. In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit out at room temperature for 20 minutes.
6. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until puffed and golden.
7. Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Flip slices upside down to reveal the caramel base.
Notes
Use day-old bread for better absorption and structure.
Let the dish come to room temperature before baking for even results.
To impress guests, serve slices upside down to showcase the caramel topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 170mg
Keywords: Overnight French toast, crème brûlée, breakfast ideas, easy recipe, brunch ideas