Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Indulge in this decadent Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast—rich brioche soaked in creamy custard, baked over a caramel layer, and flipped for a luscious, golden topping. Perfect for a sweet morning treat! 🍮
Ingredients
Caramel Layer:
- 🧈 Butter – ½ cup 1 stick
- 🍯 Brown sugar – 1 cup packed
Bread & Custard:
- 🍞 Brioche or Challah – Thick slices about 1 loaf, preferably day-old for better soaking
- 🥚 Eggs – 6 large
- 🥛 Heavy cream – 2 cups
- 🍦 Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons
- 🌿 Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
- 🧂 Salt – A pinch
Optional Toppings:
- 🍓 Fresh berries – Strawberries raspberries, or blueberries
- 🍦 Whipped cream – Because why not?
- 🍫 Chocolate shavings – For a touch of luxury
- 🍯 Maple syrup – Extra sweetness never hurts
Instructions
Prepare the Caramel Base:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, stirring until smooth and bubbly.
- Pour this caramel mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Arrange the Bread:
- Layer the thick slices of brioche or challah over the caramel base, fitting them snugly without too much overlap.
Make the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is thoroughly soaked.
Chill Overnight:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate overnight to let the bread soak up all that delicious custard.
Bake to Perfection:
- In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the baking dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed.
Flip and Serve:
- Let the French toast cool for about 5 minutes.
- Invert the slices onto serving plates, letting the caramel ooze down the sides.
- Top with fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a drizzle of maple syrup for the perfect finish!
