Print

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Print Recipe

Indulge in rich, creamy Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast—a decadent twist on a classic breakfast treat combining the silky texture of crème brûlée custard with warm baked French toast. Simple to prepare by soaking brioche bread in a luscious custard overnight and baking to golden perfection, this recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy custard and caramelized sugar topping, ideal for elegant brunches or cozy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8–10 slices of brioche bread (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Fresh berries or sliced bananas (for fruit infusion)
  • Nutmeg or cardamom (for spiced upgrade)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy, ensuring the custard base is well combined.
  2. Slice and Arrange the Bread: Cut brioche into thick slices about 1 to 1.5 inches. Evenly arrange the slices in a greased baking dish without overcrowding, allowing each piece to soak properly.
  3. Soak Overnight: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread, pressing gently to ensure all slices absorb the liquid. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best texture and flavor.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle a generous, even layer of 1/2 cup brown sugar over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes until custard is set and edges turn golden brown.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: For the signature crème brûlée finish, use a kitchen torch to caramelize the brown sugar topping until crisp and caramelized. Alternatively, place the dish under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Use day-old brioche bread for better custard absorption without becoming mushy.
  • Do not skip the overnight soaking step to achieve the best custard texture and flavor.
  • Distribute brown sugar evenly on top for a consistent caramelized crust.
  • If using a broiler to caramelize sugar, watch carefully to avoid burning.
  • Allow the baked French toast to rest for 5 minutes before slicing for easier serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight French toast, crème brûlée French toast, baked French toast, brunch recipe, custard soaked bread, caramelized sugar topping

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