Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious and indulgent breakfast dish that’s perfect for special occasions or weekend mornings. This recipe combines the rich flavors of crème brûlée with the classic comfort of French toast, all prepared the night before for an easy and delicious breakfast. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast:
- 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for the topping
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the French Toast Mixture
- Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Arrange Bread Slices: Arrange the French bread slices in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- Beat Eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Add Dairy: Add the half-and-half, whole milk, vanilla extract, and 2/3 cup of granulated sugar to the eggs. Whisk until smooth.
- Add Spices: Stir in the ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
- Pour Custard Over Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure each slice is well soaked.
- Cover and Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Step 4: Bake the French Toast
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Butter Topping: Melt the unsalted butter and drizzle it over the soaked bread slices.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Step 5: Create the Crème Brûlée Topping
- Sprinkle Sugar: After baking, remove the French toast from the oven. Sprinkle a generous amount of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the French toast.
- Caramelize Sugar: Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden-brown crust. Alternatively, you can place the baking dish under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with Maple Syrup: Serve the Crème Brûlée French Toast with a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Bread Choice: Stale or day-old bread works best for this recipe as it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming too mushy.
- Torching Sugar: If using a broiler to caramelize the sugar, keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Variations
- Berry Crème Brûlée French Toast: Add a layer of fresh berries between the bread slices before pouring the custard mixture for a fruity twist.
- Nutty French Toast: Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, over the top before caramelizing the sugar for added crunch.
- Chocolate French Toast: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between the bread slices for a chocolatey variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes, you can use other types of bread such as brioche, challah, or even thick-sliced white bread.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the half-and-half and whole milk with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter substitute as well.
Q4: What can I serve with Crème Brûlée French Toast?
A: This French toast pairs well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a side of bacon or sausage.
Q5: Can I prepare this dish the same day?
A: Yes, if you’re short on time, you can let the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. However, overnight soaking results in a more flavorful and evenly soaked French toast.
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent and delicious breakfast dish that’s sure to impress. With its rich custard base and crispy caramelized sugar topping, it’s a perfect treat for any special occasion. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a delightful breakfast that your family and friends will love. Enjoy this luxurious French toast with your favorite toppings for a perfect start to your day!
