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Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

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This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast combines the decadence of crème brûlée with the comforting flavors of classic French toast. Soaked overnight in a rich caramel-like custard, this baked French toast emerges with a golden, caramelized top and soft, custardy inside. Perfect for holiday breakfasts or special brunches!

Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup unsalted butter

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 2 tbsp corn syrup

  • 1 loaf French bread, cut into 1-inch slices

  • Custard:

    • 5 large eggs
    • 1½ cups whole milk
    • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
    • ¼ tsp salt
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)

Instructions

  1. Make the Caramel Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Stir until smooth and bubbling, about 3-4 minutes. Pour the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Arrange the Bread: Arrange the slices of French bread in a single layer over the caramel sauce, overlapping slightly if needed to fit.

  3. Prepare the Custard: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is soaked.

  4. Chill Overnight: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

  5. Bake: The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and let the dish sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.

  6. Serve: Let the French toast cool for a few minutes before serving. Invert each slice so the caramel side is facing up. Serve warm, with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

  • For added crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a brûlée-like crust.
  • Try using brioche or challah bread for a softer texture.