Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

1. Cut the Bread: Slice the brioche or challah bread into thick pieces (about 1-1.5 inches). If the bread is stale or a day old, it will absorb the custard better.
2. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the sliced bread in a single layer in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

1. Whisk Together Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Pour Over the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Press down gently on the bread to help it absorb the mixture.
3. Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to allow the bread to soak.

Step 3: Bake the French Toast

1. Preheat the Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Remove the cover from the baking dish and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 4: Caramelize the Top

1. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Add Sugar Topping: Evenly sprinkle 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over the top of the French toast.
3. Caramelize the Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and forms a crispy crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the French toast warm, garnished with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
2. Enjoy: Slice and serve with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for the Perfect Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

• Use Day-Old Bread: Using day-old brioche or challah helps the bread absorb more custard and improves the texture.
• Let It Soak: Make sure to refrigerate the bread for several hours or overnight for the best results.
• Caramelizing the Sugar: If using a broiler, keep a close eye on the sugar to prevent it from burning. The key is to get that beautiful crispy crust without overcooking.

Conclusion: A Breakfast to Indulge In

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delightful way to start your day, combining the luxurious flavors of a classic dessert with the comfort of a breakfast favorite. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a perfect addition to any brunch menu or special occasion. With its make-ahead convenience and customizable options, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So gather your ingredients, prepare the night before, and treat yourself to a breakfast that truly feels like a celebration!