Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe has become one of my favorite breakfast dishes. It combines the creamy richness of crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast. This recipe is perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions when you want to impress family and friends.
Why I Love Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
I remember the first time I tried crème brûlée French toast. It was at a cozy little café on a Sunday morning. The dish was warm, sweet, and had that delightful caramelized sugar topping. I knew I had to recreate it at home. This recipe allows me to prepare it the night before, so I can enjoy a stress-free morning.
Ingredients for Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
To make this delicious dish, gather these ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream for serving (optional)
How to Prepare the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by slicing the brioche or challah bread into thick slices. I usually aim for about one inch thick. This thickness ensures that the bread soaks up all the delicious custard without falling apart.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture is what makes the French toast so rich and creamy. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
In a greased baking dish, arrange the slices of bread in a single layer. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring each slice is soaked. I like to gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
Step 5: Bake the French Toast
Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then, bake it uncovered for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.
How to Caramelize the Sugar Topping
Step 6: Prepare for Caramelizing
Once the French toast is baked, remove it from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the French toast. This sugar will create that signature crème brûlée topping.
Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar
You can use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving Your Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Once the sugar is caramelized, let it cool for a minute or two. This will allow the sugar to harden. Serve slices warm, topped with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Tips for the Best Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard better. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours to dry out a bit.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest for a unique twist.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
Storage and Reheating
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them in the oven. The caramelized sugar may lose some of its crunch, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Pairing with Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
This dish pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing fruit juice. I often enjoy it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a complete breakfast experience.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Special Occasions
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is great for brunch gatherings, holidays, or any special occasion. It’s easy to prepare, and your guests will be impressed by the beautiful presentation and rich flavors.
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s comforting, indulgent, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to please. I can’t wait for you to try it!