Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast, a scrumptious twist on classic French toast with a caramelized base and a custardy texture. This make-ahead recipe is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat that will impress your family and guests.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the rich and creamy flavors of crème brûlée and enjoys the comforting simplicity of French toast. By combining these two beloved dishes, you can create a mouthwatering breakfast or brunch option that is both convenient and delicious.

How to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
• 5 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Grand Marnier or orange liqueur (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Prepare the Caramel Base

   • Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until smooth.
   • Pour the caramel into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly.

2. Arrange the Bread

   • Place French bread slices in a single layer over the caramel.

3. Prepare the Custard

   • Whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, Grand Marnier (if using), and salt.
   • Pour the custard over the bread, ensuring even soaking.

4. Refrigerate Overnight

   • Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.

5. Bake and Serve

   • Preheat oven to 350°F.
   • Let the dish sit at room temperature, then bake for 40-45 minutes.
   • Cool slightly before serving with toppings like berries or whipped cream.

How to Serve Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Enjoy this decadent treat warm, topped with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair it with a cup of coffee or freshly squeezed juice for a delightful breakfast or brunch experience.

How to Store Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Tips to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

• Use day-old French bread for better absorption of the custard.
• Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
• Experiment with different liqueurs or flavorings to customize the dish to your preference.

Variation

For a festive twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for warm, spiced flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole milk instead of half-and-half? Yes, you can substitute whole milk for half-and-half, but the final dish may be slightly less creamy.

2. Can I make this recipe without alcohol? Yes, you can omit the Grand Marnier or orange liqueur without significantly affecting the overall flavor.

3. Can I freeze Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast before baking? It is not recommended to freeze this dish before baking as the custard may become watery upon thawing.