Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a morning treat that feels like dessert! This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast combines rich, creamy flavors with the delightful crispiness of a classic crème brûlée. Perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions, you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning. Your family and guests will be enchanted by its golden brown top and the soft, custardy bread beneath. A sprinkle of fresh berries adds a burst of color and freshness to every bite!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of brioche bread, cut into thick slices
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours 55 minutes (including overnight chilling)
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Arrange the slices of brioche bread in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, overlapping them slightly if necessary to fit them all in.
- Pour the creamy mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure each slice is well soaked and immersed in the luscious liquid.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- The next day, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you eagerly anticipate this delightful breakfast.
- Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the soaked bread, creating that iconic crème brûlée crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard beneath is set and puffy.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with fresh berries for an extra pop of color and flavor, if desired.
Notes or Tips
For best results, use fresh brioche bread; it’s soft and slightly sweet, which perfectly complements the rich custard. If you don’t have brioche on hand, challah or a similar bread can work well, too. Feel free to experiment by adding other spices like nutmeg or even a splash of orange zest to elevate the flavor profile!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves a simple soaking technique to allow the bread to absorb the custard. Make sure to press down on each slice gently after pouring the mixture to ensure even soaking. Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden top. You can also broil it for a minute or two at the end if you want an extra caramelized finish, just keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
FAQ
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the brioche bread with a gluten-free bread of your choice, and you’re all set. The soaking process remains the same!
How long can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is not just a breakfast; it’s an experience. With minimal effort, you can impress your friends and family with a dish that looks fancy yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Slow mornings are about to become so much sweeter—enjoy every scrumptious bite!