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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe
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This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe is an indulgent yet effortless breakfast treat featuring thick-cut brioche soaked overnight in a rich vanilla custard, then baked with a caramelized sugar crust that delivers a perfect blend of creamy texture and crispy sweetness. Ideal for weekend mornings or special occasions, it combines dessert-like decadence with classic breakfast comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Bread

  • 8 thick-cut slices day-old brioche bread

Topping

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon if using until smooth and well combined to form a silky custard base.
  2. Soak the Bread: Arrange brioche slices in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing lightly so each slice absorbs the liquid. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to soak thoroughly.
  3. Preheat Oven and Prepare for Baking: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. While waiting, prepare the topping sugar.
  4. Add the Sugar Topping: Sprinkle an even layer of brown sugar over the soaked brioche slices, which will caramelize to create the signature brûlée crust during baking or broiling.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Set: Bake the French toast for 30-35 minutes until the custard is set and the edges begin to turn golden. For a crisp caramelized top, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes or use a kitchen torch to melt and crisp the sugar topping, watching closely to avoid burning.
  6. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Allow the French toast to cool for a couple of minutes after baking. Cut into portions and serve warm with your choice of toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche bread for the best texture and soaking without it falling apart.
  • Soaking overnight is essential for full custard absorption and flavor depth.
  • Distribute brown sugar evenly over the top for consistent caramelization.
  • Watch the broiler carefully during caramelization to prevent burning as sugar melts quickly.
  • Enhance your serving with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or syrup for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast, crème brûlée French toast, custard-soaked bread, caramelized sugar topping, easy breakfast recipe, decadent breakfast, make ahead French toast

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