Indulge in Delight: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Welcome to the ultimate culinary delight for breakfast enthusiasts and brunch aficionados alike! Prepare to elevate your mornings with our sumptuous Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe. This indulgent dish combines the creamy richness of crème brûlée with the comforting allure of French toast, resulting in a decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekends.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering with friends or simply seeking to treat yourself to a luxurious morning meal, this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is sure to impress. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the art of slow cooking and the magic of transforming simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Plus, with its make-ahead preparation, it’s a lifesaver for busy hosts who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones.

Why It’s Great

What sets this recipe apart is its ingenious combination of classic French toast elements with the sophisticated flair of crème brûlée. By allowing the bread to soak in a luscious custard overnight, every slice becomes infused with rich flavors and a velvety texture. The finishing touch of caramelized sugar adds a delightful crunch, reminiscent of the beloved dessert. Not only does this dish deliver on taste, but it also offers the convenience of effortless preparation, making it a standout choice for any brunch menu.

Recipe Notes

Ingredients:

1/2 cup salted butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp white corn syrup
Day old bread cut into one-inch cubes, about a nine-inch loaf of French bread, or other firm white bread
1 1/2 cups half and half
5 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla
sanding sugar and sliced almonds for garnish, optional

Directions:

Combine brown sugar, butter, and corn syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir until the sugar is all dissolved and the sauce is smooth and silky.

Pour sauce into a greased 13″ x 9″ baking dish.

Arrange the bread cubes on the caramel layer.

Whisk the half and half with the eggs and vanilla until frothy and thoroughly blended.

Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and cover the dish with foil.

Rrefrigerate for at least eight hours or more.

Bake at 350 degrees on the center rack of your oven until the top is golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. If it begins to brown too quickly, cover with foil until it is done baking.

Garnish with sanding sugar and sliced almonds if desired.

Notes

I used Texas toast, but any firm white bread with crust removed will work.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl
Whisk
9×13-inch baking dish
Plastic wrap
Oven
Kitchen torch (for caramelizing)

Leftover Storage

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the toaster or oven until warmed through.

Food & Drink Pairings

Pair this indulgent French toast with a piping hot cup of freshly brewed coffee or a refreshing mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience. For added flair, serve with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of bread? While French bread works best for its sturdy texture, you can experiment with other bread varieties such as brioche or challah for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with your favorite non-dairy alternatives such as coconut milk or almond milk. The result may vary slightly in richness and flavor but will still be delicious.

Can I skip the overnight refrigeration step? While the overnight soak allows the flavors to meld and the bread to fully absorb the custard, you can opt for a shorter soaking time if needed. Aim for at least 4 hours to ensure the bread is adequately saturated.

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Indulge, savor, and delight in the luxurious flavors of Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast – a breakfast masterpiece that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.