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Indulge in Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Alyssa

Indulge in Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Indulge in Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast—decadent, custard-soaked bread topped with a caramelized sugar crust. A perfect breakfast or brunch treat.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

Caramel Base:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter: Provides a rich creamy flavor.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramel flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup: Helps create a smooth glossy caramel.
French Toast:
  • 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread sliced: Offers a soft texture that absorbs the custard well.
  • 6 large eggs: Acts as the binding agent in the custard mixture providing richness.
  • 2 cups whole milk: Contributes creaminess and balances the richness of the cream.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a decadent custard that mimics the best crème brûlée.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor giving depth to the dish.
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon optional: Adds warmth and spice; feel free to omit.
  • ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Caramelized Topping:
  • ½ cup granulated sugar: Creates the signature hard caramel topping.
Optional garnishes can elevate your presentation:
  • 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.

Method
 

Prepare the Night Before:
  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.
The Next Morning:
  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Garnish: Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream before serving!