Print

Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe

Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 68 reviews

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast transforms classic brunch into a showstopping make-ahead treat. Thick slices of French bread soak in a rich vanilla custard overnight, then bake until golden and puffed. The finishing touch? A brûléed sugar top for irresistible crackle and caramel flavor. Perfect for relaxed mornings or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick

Custard

  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Topping

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • Granulated sugar (for caramelized topping)
  • Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking dish: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping them if necessary to fit.
  2. Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until completely smooth and well blended.
  3. Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure every piece is well coated. Gently press the bread down into the custard to soak it through.
  4. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours) so the bread can absorb all the custard.
  5. Bake the French toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the fridge and discard the plastic wrap. Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with a thin, even layer of sugar. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is puffed and golden brown.
  6. Caramelize the sugar topping: Let the dish cool slightly. Sprinkle a fresh, even layer of granulated sugar over the top. Using a kitchen torch or the broiler setting, carefully caramelize the sugar until bubbly, golden, and crisp.
  7. Serve: Let your Crème Brûlée French Toast cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Let the French toast sit out for 15-20 minutes before baking to take the chill off, ensuring even baking.
  • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, the broiler can produce a crispy sugar top—watch closely to prevent burning!
  • Brioche or challah can be substituted for French bread for a richer flavor.
  • Serve with berries or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: crème brûlée French toast, overnight French toast, brunch, baked French toast, caramelized sugar, make-ahead breakfasts

Find it online: https://www.sanacooks.com/generously-butter-a-913-inch-baking-dish-recipe/