Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast (Print-Friendly Version)
Custardy French toast with crisp caramelized topping, easy to prep overnight for a special morning treat.
# What You’ll Need to Make This:
→ Main Components
01 -
1 loaf French bread, sliced 2.5 cm thick
02 -
5 large eggs
03 -
240 ml half-and-half
04 -
240 ml whole milk
05 -
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 -
133 g granulated sugar, divided, plus additional for topping
07 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
08 -
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
09 -
60 g unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
→ For Serving
10 -
Maple syrup
# How to Prepare:
01 -
Generously butter a 23×33 cm baking dish. Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping as needed.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 133 g granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.
03 -
Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the bread into the custard.
04 -
Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
05 -
Preheat oven to 175°C. Remove the baking dish from refrigeration, discarding the plastic wrap. Dot the bread with small butter pieces and sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar atop. Bake for 35–40 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
06 -
After baking, let rest slightly. Evenly sprinkle granulated sugar over the surface. Using a kitchen torch or oven broiler, caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
07 -
Allow to cool for several minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup. Optional: garnish with fresh fruit or whipped cream as desired.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
For a deeper flavor, substitute brown sugar for some or all of the granulated sugar in the custard.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven.
03 -
Enhance service with seasonal fruit or whipped cream as a topping.