Description
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent baked breakfast casserole made with custard-soaked bread layered over a caramel base. After baking, the slices flip to reveal a golden, caramelized topping that feels like dessert for brunch.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1 loaf French bread or brioche, sliced 1 inch thick
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half (or milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking until smooth and bubbling. Pour into greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Arrange bread slices in a single layer over the caramel base, trimming or overlapping slightly as needed.
- Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Pour evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is coated.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
- The next day, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until top is golden and custard is set.
- Cool 5 minutes, then flip slices to reveal caramelized topping. Serve with powdered sugar, berries, or whipped cream if desired.
Notes
- Use brioche, challah, or Texas toast for extra richness.
- Add orange zest to custard for a citrusy twist.
- Top with pecans or almonds before baking for added crunch.
- A drizzle of maple syrup in the caramel base deepens flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
