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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a rich and creamy breakfast dish that combines classic French toast with a luscious crème brûlée custard. Made with thick slices of brioche or challah soaked overnight in a sweet vanilla custard, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a caramelized sugar crust, this make-ahead delight offers an indulgent and effortless morning treat perfect for family breakfasts or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 loaf thick brioche or challah bread, sliced
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing sugar topping)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Butter (for greasing dish and optional drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and the sugar dissolves. This custard blend will soak into the bread to create that rich crème brûlée texture.
  2. Assemble the Bread: Cut your brioche or challah into thick slices and layer them evenly in a butter-greased baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure each slice absorbs the liquid fully.
  3. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This soaking step enhances the flavor and gives the custard-like consistency.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake the dish uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the custard is fully set and the top is golden brown.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar evenly on top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it until crisp and shiny, creating the classic brûlée crust. If a torch is not available, broil briefly while watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Choose day-old brioche or challah for best soaking results without mushiness.
  • Overnight soaking (6-12 hours) is ideal for maximum flavor and texture.
  • Use a kitchen torch for even caramelization; alternatively, use broiler carefully.
  • Allow the French toast to rest a few minutes before slicing to set the custard.
  • Experiment with toppings such as fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, or chopped nuts for texture and presentation enhancements.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, crème brûlée, overnight recipe, custard, breakfast, brunch, make-ahead, creamy, caramelized sugar topping

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/overnight-crme-brle-french-toast/