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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
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This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe offers a luxurious and effortless breakfast or brunch option. Thick brioche slices soak overnight in a rich, creamy vanilla custard, then bake to golden perfection and finish with a caramelized sugar topping that delivers a perfect crunchy sweetness. Ideal for gatherings or special mornings, it uses simple pantry staples and can be customized for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 6–8 thick slices brioche bread

Custard Mixture

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt

Topping

  • 1/3 cup brown sugar (for caramelizing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 2 cups heavy cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until fully blended and smooth. This custard mixture will soak into the bread, creating a creamy and flavorful base.
  2. Assemble the Bread: Evenly arrange 6-8 thick slices of brioche bread in a greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, pressing down lightly to ensure all slices absorb the liquid. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours) to let the flavors meld and the custard infuse the bread.
  3. Bake the French Toast: The next morning, uncover the soaked bread and sprinkle a generous and even layer of brown sugar (about 1/3 cup) over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes until the custard is set and the top starts to bubble and turn golden.
  4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the brown sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust similar to traditional crème brûlée. If you don’t have a torch, place the dish under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning the sugar. Serve immediately to enjoy the warm, crunchy topping.

Notes

  • Choose brioche or challah bread for best custard absorption without falling apart.
  • Do not skip the overnight soaking; it allows deep flavor infusion and custard setting.
  • Use room temperature eggs and cream to ensure a smooth custard without lumps.
  • A handheld torch helps achieve even caramelization on top for perfect brûlée crust.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the caramelized sugar at its crispiest.
  • Substitute gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.
  • Add fruits like strawberries or blueberries between bread layers for a fruity variation.
  • Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard for an autumn twist.
  • Use coconut cream or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
  • For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes and use plant-based cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight french toast, crème brûlée french toast, baked french toast, custard soaked bread, brunch recipe, easy breakfast, caramelized sugar topping

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