Description
Treat yourself to the ultimate make-ahead brunch with Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast. This decadent dish features thick slices of brioche soaked in a rich vanilla custard and baked over a buttery caramel glaze, delivering a crème brûlée-inspired breakfast that’s both elegant and comforting. Perfect for holidays, weekend guests, or anytime you want an easy recipe that feels luxurious. Ideal for quick breakfast prep, breakfast ideas for a crowd, or indulgent food ideas that wow without much work.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced 1-inch thick
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Maple syrup for serving
Optional Toppings or Add-ins:
Fresh berries
Toasted nuts
Orange zest
Whipped cream
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Stir until bubbling and smooth.
2. Pour caramel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
3. Arrange bread slices over the caramel in a snug, even layer.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
5. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing slightly to soak.
6. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
7. In the morning, remove the dish from the fridge and let it come to room temp for 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes or until golden and custard is set.
10. Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Invert slices onto plates for caramel topping.
11. Serve with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and desired toppings.
12. Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.
Notes
For the best texture, use slightly stale brioche or challah to absorb the custard evenly.
Always let the dish sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Don’t overbake! The center should still have a slight custard wobble when done.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: overnight French toast, crème brûlée French toast, easy breakfast casserole, brunch ideas, make-ahead breakfast