Description

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake combines the rich custardy texture and caramelized sugar crust of classic crème brûlée with the comforting appeal of French toast. Prepared the night before and baked to golden perfection in the morning, this luscious dish is perfect for elegant brunches or effortless mornings. Customize with fruits, nuts, or chocolate for a versatile and indulgent breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

6–8 thick-cut slices of brioche or challah bread
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
6 large eggs
3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Slice your brioche or challah into thick pieces and arrange evenly in a well-buttered baking dish, filling the dish while leaving room for the custard to soak in.
Make the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and fragrant, fully blending the flavors.
Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, gently pressing them down to absorb the liquid thoroughly. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and custard to thicken.
Bake to Golden Perfection: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the custard-soaked bread for 45-55 minutes, until puffed, golden, and set in the center.
Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Once slightly cooled, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top. Using a kitchen torch or broiler, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden brûlée crust. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Notes

Day-old bread works best as it absorbs custard without falling apart.
Press the bread slightly to ensure thorough custard absorption for creamy texture.
Chilling overnight helps flavors develop and custard to thicken.
Spread sugar evenly and thinly on top for a perfect caramelized crust.
Keep a close eye when caramelizing sugar to prevent burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking)
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8th of recipe)
Calories: 450
Sugar: 25g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 210mg