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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
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The Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious breakfast or brunch dish where thick slices of brioche or challah bread are soaked overnight in a rich custard mixture inspired by crème brûlée. Baked to a creamy perfection and topped with caramelized sugar, this French toast offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and a crisp, crunchy topping that elevates a classic favorite. Easy to prepare ahead, versatile for adaptations, and impressive enough for entertaining, it’s an indulgent yet effortless way to brighten your mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread (at least 1 inch thick, preferably day-old)

Custard Mixture

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional)

Caramelized Topping

  • Additional granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Fresh berries or sliced bananas
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup
  • Whipped cream
  • Toasted pecans or sliced almonds

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and optional ground cinnamon or nutmeg until smooth and fully combined. This custard mixture forms the creamy base for your French toast.
  2. Soak the Bread Overnight: Arrange thick slices of brioche or challah in a baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all slices are fully soaked. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard thoroughly.
  3. Preheat and Prepare for Baking: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If desired, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the soaked bread to prepare for caramelizing the crust later.
  4. Bake Until Golden and Custardy: Bake the French toast uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Insert a knife or toothpick to check that the custard is cooked through but still creamy inside.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Once the French toast has cooled slightly, use a kitchen torch to gently caramelize the sprinkled granulated sugar on top, forming a crisp, golden crust. If you do not have a torch, place the dish under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale or day-old bread for better custard absorption without sogginess.
  • Cover the dish tightly before refrigerating to prevent bread from drying out.
  • Don’t skip caramelizing the sugar topping, as it creates the signature crunchy contrast.
  • Keep bread slices at least 1 inch thick for ideal texture.
  • Monitor baking time carefully to avoid overcooking and maintain a creamy interior.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight french toast, crème brûlée french toast, custard soaked french toast, baked french toast, brunch recipe

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/overnight-crme-brle-french-toast-recipe/