Description

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent and easy make-ahead breakfast casserole. Infused with a rich custard of eggs, cream, and cinnamon, it features caramelized brown sugar and butter at the base, creating a luscious crème brûlée effect. Perfect for brunch or special occasions, it delivers a golden, puffed texture with a sweet, crunchy topping and can be prepared the night before for effortless morning baking.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons corn syrup

Main

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices

Custard Mixture

5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Serving

Powdered sugar (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the caramel base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, then pour it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the bread: Place the sliced French bread in a single layer over the caramel base in the baking dish, slightly overlapping slices as needed to cover the surface.
Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined and smooth.
Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
Refrigerate overnight: Place the covered baking dish in the refrigerator and let it soak overnight to absorb the custard flavors and texture.
Prepare to bake: Remove the dish from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.
Preheat oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the French toast: Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until it is puffed, golden brown on top, and set in the center.
Optional finishing touch: For an extra crunchy topping reminiscent of crème brûlée, sprinkle granulated sugar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm. Pair with fresh berries or maple syrup for an indulgent breakfast treat.

Notes

Sprinkling granulated sugar on top during the last minutes of baking creates a delightful crunchy crust similar to classic crème brûlée.
For added flavor, consider serving with fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Use a sturdy French bread loaf to maintain texture; day-old bread works best to absorb custard without becoming mushy.
This dish can be assembled the night before for convenience and baked fresh in the morning.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American