Imagine waking up to the aroma of rich, buttery French toast with a caramelized crème brûlée topping. This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect breakfast treat for special occasions, weekend brunches, or holiday mornings. Made with thick slices of bread soaked in a creamy custard, then baked to golden perfection, this dish is easy to prepare the night before, so you can enjoy a luxurious breakfast with minimal effort in the morning. Let’s dive into this delightful and indulgent recipe!
Ingredients
For the Caramel Base:
- Unsalted butter (½ cup or 1 stick)
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed)
- Corn syrup (2 tbsp)
For the French Toast:
- Challah, brioche, or French bread (1 loaf, sliced into 1-inch thick slices)
- Eggs (5 large)
- Half-and-half (1 ½ cups)
- Milk (½ cup)
- Granulated sugar (½ cup)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Grand Marnier or orange juice (1 tbsp, optional)
- Salt (¼ tsp)
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
- Fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup together, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, about 3-5 minutes. Pour the caramel mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the entire base.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread Slices
Arrange the bread slices in a single layer over the caramel base in the baking dish. You may need to overlap the slices slightly to fit them all.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, Grand Marnier (or orange juice), and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well-soaked. Press the bread slices gently to help them absorb the custard. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 6 hours.
Step 5: Bake the French Toast
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, and serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup if desired. Enjoy the rich, caramelized flavors of this decadent breakfast dish!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the French toast hot, straight from the oven, with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the custard or caramel base.
- To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk.
- Feel free to add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the custard for extra flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Ina Garten suggests using a day-old challah or brioche for the best texture.
Martha Stewart recommends adding a pinch of salt to the caramel base to enhance the flavors.
Nigella Lawson advises preparing the dish the night before to allow the bread to soak up all the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, challah, brioche, or a thick French baguette are ideal choices for their soft yet sturdy texture. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients, like corn syrup, are gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish on the same day?
Yes, allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 1-2 hours if making it on the same day.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor.
Can I add fruit to the French toast?
Absolutely! Add sliced bananas, berries, or even thinly sliced apples between the bread slices for a fruity twist.
How do I prevent the French toast from becoming too soggy?
Use slightly stale bread, and do not over-soak. Also, ensure your oven is preheated to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
How do I know when the French toast is done?
The top should be golden brown, and the custard should be set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
How do I make this dish more decadent?
Add a splash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Amaretto to the custard for an extra layer of flavor.
What can I serve with this French toast?
Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of warm maple syrup.
Enjoy your Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast—a delicious, indulgent breakfast that’s sure to impress!
