There’s something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast wafting through your home. This indulgent recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to start your day. Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday brunch or a festive holiday gathering, this dish elevates a simple breakfast into a gourmet experience. I can still remember the first time I made this for friends; it was a hit! Everyone couldn’t believe how easy it was to prepare a classic French dessert in a breakfast format.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast so special? For one, it blends the richness of crème brûlée with the comforting familiarity of French toast. This recipe is perfect for those who want a sumptuous treat without spending hours in the kitchen. You simply prepare it the night before, pop it in the oven the next morning, and voila – magic happens! It’s budget-friendly, requiring simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and kid-approved for sure.
“This overnight French toast is a game-changer! It feels gourmet but is so easy to make. My kids devoured it!” – Emily T.
How this recipe comes together
Making Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a straightforward process that requires just a little planning. Begin by generously buttering a baking dish, which will keep your toast from sticking and add extra flavor. Next, slice your French bread and arrange it in a single layer.
In a separate bowl, whisk together a blend of creamy goodness: eggs, half-and-half, and whole milk, made fragrant with vanilla extract and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. This mixture is poured over the bread to ensure every slice is well-soaked, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Then, all that’s left is to cover it and let it chill until morning.
The next day, a brief baking session transforms your soaked bread into a puffy, golden delight, finished off with a quick broil to create that signature caramelized sugar topping.
Gather these items
To whip up this deliciousness, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Feel free to substitute the half-and-half with heavy cream for an even richer flavor, or almond milk for a lighter, non-dairy alternative.
