Step-by-step instructions
- Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange the French bread slices in a single layer.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Pour this egg mixture evenly over the bread, making sure each slice is well-soaked.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and remove the plastic wrap.
- Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with additional sugar.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the toast is golden and puffed.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle extra sugar on top and broil briefly to caramelize.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast, consider drizzling it with warm maple syrup or topping it with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate it further. For a delightful twist, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage, adding that perfect sweet-and-savory balance to your meal.
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (although that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. If you wish to freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat.
Helpful cooking tips
Want to ensure your Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a success? Here are a few helpful tips:
- Use a firm loaf of French bread; stale bread works excellent here as it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart.
- Let the bread soak for a minimum of 8 hours for the best flavor infusion.
- Feel free to add some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the egg mixture for added texture.
- To make the broiling process easier, keep a close eye on the toast while broiling to prevent burning.
Creative twists
Ready to mix things up? Consider these delicious variations:
- Berry Bliss: Incorporate seasonal berries into the bread layer.
- Nutty Cinnamon: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the egg mixture for a nutty crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swap out some of the sugar for chocolate chips, creating a rich, decadent dessert-like breakfast.
- Pumpkin Spice: In the fall, add a spoonful of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spices for a seasonal twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The active preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, but remember to let it chill in the fridge overnight!
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brioche or challah are great alternatives that would make this dish even more indulgent.
Is it safe to reheat leftovers?
Yes, just make sure to reheat any leftovers thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
With its rich custard base and luxurious caramelized top, Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is more than just a breakfast; it’s a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
