Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

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This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious twist on a breakfast classic. Imagine thick slices of brioche soaked overnight in a creamy vanilla custard, then baked until golden and topped with a crackly layer of caramelized sugar. It’s part French toast, part dessert, and completely irresistible.

Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or slow Sunday mornings, this baked breakfast is both impressive and make-ahead friendly. Plus, that crisp sugar topping? It’s the ultimate upgrade for anyone tired of basic syrup-soaked slices.

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What Makes This French Toast So Special?

Unlike typical French toast that’s pan-fried and served immediately, this one is prepared the night before and baked in the morning—no last-minute flipping needed. The brown sugar and butter mixture creates a rich caramel layer on the bottom while the custard soaks the bread overnight, giving it an ultra-soft, almost flan-like texture.

And the final touch? A quick broil or kitchen torch to brûlée the top with sugar. It’s golden, glassy, and adds a stunning crunch to every bite.

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Ingredients for the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

• Brioche Bread – Thick slices are ideal for absorbing the custard without getting soggy.
• Heavy Cream & Whole Milk – The combo gives the custard a rich, silky consistency.
• Eggs – The backbone of the custard mixture.
• Brown Sugar – For that deep caramel flavor at the base.
• Granulated Sugar – Used to create the brûlée topping.
• Butter – Melted into the base for a rich, buttery bite.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warmth.
• Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
• Optional: Maple Syrup or Berries – For serving, if desired.

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How To Make the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base

Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until fully dissolved and bubbling. Pour this caramel into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Bread

Arrange thick slices of brioche on top of the caramel layer, slightly overlapping if needed. You can trim edges to fit snugly.

Step 3: Mix the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring each slice is well-soaked.

Step 4: Chill Overnight

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours). This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and ensures a luscious baked texture.

Step 5: Bake It

Remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until puffed, golden, and set in the center.

Step 6: Brûlée the Top

Sprinkle granulated sugar generously over the top of the baked French toast. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crisp. Alternatively, broil on high for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve with maple syrup or fresh berries for an extra touch.

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How to Serve and Store Crème Brûlée French Toast

This dish is best served warm straight from the oven, especially when the brûléed sugar topping is freshly crisped. If you’re serving it for brunch, pair it with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or a light salad to balance the richness.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or under the broiler to revive that caramelized crunch.

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What to Serve With Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast?

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add brightness and cut through the sweetness.

Whipped Cream

Soft peaks of vanilla whipped cream make every bite more indulgent.

Crispy Bacon

The salty, smoky crunch of bacon pairs perfectly with the custardy toast.

Soft Scrambled Eggs

A savory egg dish helps round out the meal and keeps it balanced.

Vanilla Yogurt

Served on the side, it adds creaminess and a slight tang.

Caramelized Bananas

If you’re really going for decadence, sauté sliced bananas in butter and brown sugar.

Espresso or Iced Coffee

A bold sip is the ideal counter to a rich, sweet bite.

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Want More Sweet Breakfast Ideas?

If this baked beauty hits the spot, you might love these too:

• Lemon Churro Pancakes – Sugary crisp edges with a citrusy twist.
• Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake – Juicy peaches and buttery crumbs.
• Strawberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Croissants – A brunch-time favorite.
• Salted Maple Donut Muffins – Soft, cakey, and dipped in maple glaze.
• Carrot Cake Cinnamon Rolls – A cozy twist on two classics.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your best brunch board so you’re always just one night away from an unforgettable breakfast.

Did you add a filling? Maybe some mascarpone or jam between slices? Tell me how you personalized it in the comments!

For more brunch-ready creations, visit SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest where I post sweet and savory favorites daily.

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