What is Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast and how is it different from regular French toast?

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a make‑ahead breakfast casserole where thick slices of bread soak in a rich custard overnight and then bake with a caramelized sugar layer on top. Unlike regular French toast you cook right before serving, this recipe develops deeper flavor and texture by soaking the bread in the fridge before baking.

Can I make this recipe without soaking overnight?

You can let the custard soak for a few hours, but overnight soaking gives the best custardy texture and flavor. The longer rest helps the bread fully absorb the egg‑cream mixture so it bakes up soft inside and caramelizes beautifully on top.

What kind of bread works best for this French toast?

Day‑old or slightly stale French bread, brioche, or challah works best for this casserole since it soaks up the custard without turning soggy. Fresh, soft bread can become too mushy when soaked overnight.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a warm oven or microwave, and if the sugar topping softens, you can briefly torch or broil it again for added crunch.

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Description

Make this creamy Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast for a decadent, easy make-ahead brunch that’s perfect for weekends and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz brioche bread, cut into thick slices
6 large eggs
2 cups half-and-half
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Fresh berries for garnish
Maple syrup for serving

Cook Mode Keep your screen awake while you cook

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix melted butter and brown sugar to form caramel layer at the bottom of the dish.
Arrange bread slices in the baking dish.
Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
Pour custard mixture over bread, pressing gently to soak evenly.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden and custard is set.
Sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize using a kitchen torch or broiler.
Serve warm with fresh berries and maple syrup.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale brioche for best absorption.

Adjust custard richness with cream or milk ratios.

Ensure even caramelization by watching sugar closely under broiler or torch.

Can be prepared ahead for weekend brunch or holidays.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 420
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 180mg