Indulge in Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Ingredients
- ½ cupunsalted butter: Provides a rich (creamy flavor.)
- 1 cuppacked brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel flavor.
- 2 tablespoonslight corn syrup: Helps create a smooth (glossy caramel.)
- 1loaf of challah or brioche bread (sliced: Offers a soft texture that absorbs the custard well.)
- 6large eggs: Acts as the binding agent in the custard mixture (providing richness.)
- 2 cupswhole milk: Contributes creaminess and balances the richness of the cream.
- 1 cupheavy cream: Creates a decadent custard that mimics the best crème brûlée.
- 1 tspvanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor (giving depth to the dish.)
- ½ tspground cinnamon (optional: Adds warmth and spice; feel free to omit.)
- ¼ tspsalt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- ½ cupgranulated sugar: Creates the signature hard caramel topping.
- —Fresh berries: Adds a burst of color and freshness.
- —Powdered sugar: A light dusting adds elegance.
- —Whipped cream: Provides a creamy contrast and richness.
- —Maple syrup: For those who prefer an additional sweet drizzle.
Instructions
- 1
Make the caramel base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons light corn syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Once ready, pour this caramel into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- 2
Layer the bread: Take 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, sliced and arrange the slices in the baking dish on top of the caramel layer, overlapping them slightly.
- 3
Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional), and ¼ tsp salt. Mix until fully combined.
- 4
Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each slice is well-covered. You may gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard.
- 5
Cover and refrigerate: Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all the flavors.
- 6
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up.
- 7
Bake the French toast: Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and bake the French toast uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until it’s golden brown and slightly puffed up.
- 8
Caramelize the topping: Once baked, sprinkle ½ cup granulated sugar evenly over the top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a nice crust. Alternatively, place it under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- 9
Cool before serving: Let the French toast cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This brief cooling helps the caramel harden a bit more.
- 10
Garnish: Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream before serving!