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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delightful morning treat combining creamy custard, rich vanilla flavor, and a crispy, caramelized sugar topping. Perfect for hosting brunch or indulging in a special breakfast, this dish can be prepared the night before and simply baked in the morning.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 8 hours 5 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine French
Servings 4 People
Calories 500 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish
  • 1 mixing bowls
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 plastic wrap
  • 1 oven-safe torch (optional)
  • 1 broiler
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread About 1 pound.
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar For the custard mixture.
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup additional granulated sugar For topping.

Instructions
 

  • Begin by slicing the brioche or challah bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, overlapping slightly if necessary.
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, 1 cup of sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the sliced bread, ensuring all pieces are well soaked.
  • Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to let the bread absorb the custard.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the French toast for 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden.
  • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of sugar evenly over the top of the French toast.
  • To create the crème brûlée crust, carefully use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it melts and forms a crispy top. If you don’t have a torch, you can place it under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  • Allow the sugar crust to cool and harden for a few minutes. Serve warm, enjoying the contrast of the creamy custard and the crunchy topping.

Notes

Feel free to customize your French toast with toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.
Make sure to monitor the broiler closely if using that method to avoid burning the sugar.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days if leftovers are available. Reheat before serving.