Oh, people, have I got a treat for you! If you’re anything like me, brunch is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience—a culinary hug to your heart. And what better way to elevate that experience than with this luscious Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast? This irresistible dish is everything you love about a classic crème brûlée, but it’s served in a warm, cozy, French toast format.
I have tried countless breakfast recipes, but this one grips my heart every time! I first made it during a family gathering when I wanted to impress my cousins with something elegant yet comforting. The aroma wafting through the house was so divine that when we finally dug in, the whole dish disappeared in mere minutes! Now, it’s our go-to recipe whenever we have loved ones over. Combined with berries and whipped cream, it’s the perfect excuse to eat dessert for breakfast! Let me walk you through how to whip up this deliciousness.
What’s in Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Brioche or Challah Bread: The star of the show! This soft, buttery bread is a must for achieving that decadent texture. You’ll want about 8-10 thick slices to soak up all that goodness.
Eggs: We need 6 large eggs to give our French toast that rich, custard-like base. I always go for organic eggs; they seem to have a better flavor!
Whole Milk: One cup of whole milk adds creaminess. Do avoid skim or low-fat here; we want all the richness we can get!
Heavy Cream: Oh my, if you’re looking for decadence, this is it. A full cup of heavy cream ensures every bite is as indulgent as it gets.
Granulated Sugar: One cup of this is mixed into the egg batter, making it sweet and perfect for those chilly mornings.
Vanilla Extract: We’re bringing in 1 teaspoon of vanilla for that lovely warmth and flavor. I recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best result.
Salt: Just a pinch (1/4 teaspoon) is added to elevate all the flavors. It’s magic!
Ground Cinnamon (Optional): I love the warm, comforting aroma it adds, but feel free to skip it if you’re not a fan.
Brown Sugar: This is for the topping (1/2 cup). When caramelized, it creates that sought-after crispy crust reminiscent of crème brûlée.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries not only add a pop of color but also a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.
Whipped Cream: You can’t have French toast without a dollop of fluffy whipped goodness, right?
Is Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Good for You?
Oh, let’s just say it’s not the healthiest option, but it’s definitely a treat you deserve every once in a while!
Bread: Using a rich bread like brioche or challah offers a delightful taste, but keep in mind it’s also higher in calories.
Eggs and Cream: The protein and fats from these ingredients mean it can keep you feeling satisfied longer. Just watch out for portion sizes unless it’s a special occasion!
Berry Garnish: Using fresh berries not only adds vitamins and antioxidants but also a lovely tartness that balances all that sweetness.
So go ahead, indulge a little. Life is too short for plain toast!
How to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast?
1. Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish so our French toast doesn’t stick.
2. Arrange those lovely brioche or challah slices in the dish, overlapping them a bit for that cozy, stacked feel.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Get those arms working; it’s a delicious workout!
4. Pour this glorious egg mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices. Use a little love and gently press the bread to soak in every ounce of that mixture. Cover it with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight (at least 8 hours).
5. The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle that brown sugar all over the soaked bread. If you’re anything like me, sprinkle with reckless abandon—it should be quite a generous layer!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. The smell is going to drive you wild!
8. Remove it from the oven, and let it cool for a few minutes before you dive in. Patience is key here!
9. Serve warm, beautifully topped with fresh berries and a generous dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a kitchen torch and caramelize the top for that beautiful crème brûlée finish!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Success
For an extra touch of flair, bust out that kitchen torch and lightly caramelize the top of your French toast once it’s out of the oven. It may sound fancy but trust me, it’s easier than it sounds! Feel free to mix and match your berry selection depending on what’s fresh and in season for you. I often switch it up if I’ve got blueberries to use!
And here’s a little secret: This dish can be made ahead of time, and it tastes even better after sitting for a day. Perfect for entertaining, or just a cozy Sunday morning!
So, friends, have I convinced you yet? This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is calling your name! Try it out, sprinkle some happiness over a plate, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations. Happy cooking!
