Description
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent, make-ahead breakfast perfect for holiday brunches or special mornings. Layers of French bread soaked in a rich custard made with eggs, half-and-half, and vanilla, baked over a luscious caramel base of butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. This dish delivers a perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and caramelized flavors with an irresistibly golden top.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
Main
- 1 loaf French bread (sliced into 1-inch thick slices)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving (Optional)
- Powdered sugar or maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the caramel base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Pour this caramel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Arrange the bread: Lay the slices of French bread over the warm caramel in a single layer, ensuring each piece is evenly covered by the caramel base.
- Make the custard mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Pour the egg custard evenly over the bread slices, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid thoroughly.
- Chill overnight: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak completely.
- Prep for baking: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the French toast: Bake the dish uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired, then slice and serve warm for a delightful breakfast experience.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale French bread for the best texture and absorption.
- You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk to lighten the dish.
- For extra warmth and flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.
