Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a luxurious dessert, Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the answer. This rich and indulgent dish features buttery caramelized sugar, creamy custard-soaked bread, and a brûléed top that adds the perfect crisp contrast. Plus, it’s prepared the night before, making your mornings effortless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Overnight Prep: Assemble everything the night before and simply bake in the morning.
• Rich and Decadent: A creamy, custardy interior with a caramelized top for the perfect texture.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or when you just want to treat yourself!

You might also love our Southern Pecan Praline Poke Cake, another delightful variation that’s perfect for any sweet occasion.

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 6 (1-inch thick) slices French bread
• 5 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups half-and-half cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon brandy-based orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Caramel Base

• In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add 1 cup brown sugar and 2 tablespoons corn syrup; stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved into a thick caramel.
• Pour the caramel mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

2. Arrange the Bread

• Trim the crusts off the 6 slices of French bread if desired.
• Arrange the bread slices in a single layer on top of the caramel in the baking dish.

3. Make the Custard

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups half-and-half cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Soak the Bread

• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is well soaked.
• Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the liquid.

5. Refrigerate Overnight

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours (or overnight).
• This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a soft, rich texture.

6. Bake the French Toast

• Remove the dish from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is puffed and golden brown.

7. Brûlée the Top (Optional)

• For an extra caramelized crust, sprinkle the top with a thin layer of sugar and use a kitchen torch to brûlée it until golden and crispy.
• If you don’t have a torch, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use Challah or Brioche: For an even richer texture, swap French bread for challah or brioche.
• Add Citrus Zest: A little orange or lemon zest in the custard enhances the flavors.
• Make it Nutty: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the caramel layer before adding the bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a bright contrast to the richness.
• Drizzle with Maple Syrup: Although it’s sweet on its own, a little maple syrup makes it extra special.
• Whipped Cream or Mascarpone: A dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese balances the flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the Oven: Warm at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the texture intact.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 30-40 seconds (though it may soften the caramelized crust).

For more inspiration, check out this CREME BRULEE FRENCH TOAST, Easy Brunch or Special, which offers a slightly different take on this classic dessert.

FAQs

1. Can I make this without refrigerating overnight?

Yes, but the texture won’t be as rich. If you’re short on time, let it sit for at least 1 hour before baking.

2. What bread works best for this recipe?

A sturdy, thick-cut bread like French bread, challah, or brioche works best. Avoid soft sandwich bread.

3. How do I prevent it from being too soggy?

Make sure your bread is slightly stale or toasted before soaking it in the custard.

Conclusion

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate brunch dish—rich, custardy, and caramelized to perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Try it once, and it’ll become a staple in your breakfast rotation!

More chocolate recipes you’ll love:

Butter Pecan Cake

Snickerdoodle Cobbler

Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies – Quick & Easy Recipe

Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

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