French Crème Brûlée Toast

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a rich and indulgent breakfast bake, featuring thick slices of brioche soaked in a creamy vanilla custard, caramelized to perfection, and drizzled with golden syrup. The overnight soak ensures a soft, custardy interior, while the caramelized topping adds a delightful crunch, making this the ultimate breakfast treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent and rich – A creamy, custard-soaked French toast with a caramelized top.
• Make-ahead convenience – Prep the night before for an easy, stress-free breakfast.
• Golden, crispy topping – The brûlée-style caramel layer adds an irresistible crunch.
• Perfect for special occasions – Ideal for brunch, holidays, or a weekend treat.
• Versatile and customizable – Add fresh fruit, nuts, or flavored syrups to enhance it.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the French Toast:

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Caramelized Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions

1. Prepare the Caramel Layer

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then stir in brown sugar and maple syrup until smooth.
• Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Arrange the Bread

• Layer the bread slices over the caramel, slightly overlapping them.

3. Make the Custard

• In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
• Pour the mixture over the bread, ensuring every slice is coated.

4. Chill Overnight

• Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Bake the French Toast

• The next morning, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until puffed and golden brown.

6. Create the Crème Brûlée Effect (Optional)

• Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the baked French toast.
• Broil for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and crisp.

7. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (plus overnight soak)
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Nutty crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds before baking.
• Berry twist – Add fresh berries between bread layers for a fruity flavor.
• Chocolate lover’s version – Stir chocolate chips into the caramel layer.
• Citrus infusion – Add orange zest to the custard for a refreshing touch.
• Savory-sweet balance – Serve with crispy bacon or sausage for contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this without letting it soak overnight?

Yes! Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before baking if short on time.

What’s the best bread for this recipe?

Brioche or challah works best for a rich, buttery texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut cream and almond milk as substitutes.

How do I prevent the French toast from being soggy?

Make sure the bread is thick-cut and slightly stale to absorb the custard properly.

Can I use regular sandwich bread?

It’s possible, but the texture won’t be as fluffy and rich as brioche or challah.

Can I bake this in individual ramekins?

Yes! Divide the ingredients into smaller portions and bake for 20-25 minutes.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, bacon, or a drizzle of honey.

How do I get an even brûlée topping?

Use a kitchen torch or broil carefully, watching closely to prevent burning.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes! Cut the sugar in the custard or use coconut sugar for a natural alternative.

How do I keep leftovers from drying out?

Store in an airtight container and reheat with a drizzle of syrup to retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious, make-ahead breakfast perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings. With its rich custard, caramelized topping, and soft, pillowy texture, it’s an indulgent treat that will impress every time. Prepare it the night before and wake up to a decadent, stress-free meal!