Description
Hey friends, Beau here! Let’s be honest—sometimes, the best brunches are the ones that make you look like a culinary wizard while you’re still in your pajamas, coffee in hand. This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is just that: a make-ahead miracle that transforms simple ingredients into a golden, caramelized masterpiece. The buttery brown sugar base melts into a luscious sauce, and the bread soaks up a rich vanilla custard overnight. In the morning? You just pop it in the oven and let your kitchen smell like heaven.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Base
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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1 cup packed dark brown sugar
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2 tablespoons light corn syrup (or honey/maple syrup in a pinch)
For the French Toast
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1 loaf crusty white bread (French or Italian), sliced 1–1½ inches thick
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5 large eggs
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1½ cups half-and-half (or whole milk/heavy cream)
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon triple sec or 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
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Make the Caramel Base:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup together until smooth and just beginning to bubble (about 3–5 minutes). Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and tilt to coat evenly. -
Arrange the Bread:
Slice the bread and lay the slices tightly in the dish over the caramel layer. Slight overlap is fine—think cozy, not perfect. -
Whisk the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, and triple sec (if using) until smooth. Pour evenly over the bread. Press lightly to help the bread absorb the mixture. -
Chill Overnight:
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This slow soak creates that signature creamy, custard-like texture. -
Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and puffed, with bubbling caramel around the edges. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. -
Serve & Enjoy:
Flip each portion onto a plate so the caramel side is up. Serve with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
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Bread matters: Use a day-old loaf for best texture—it’ll hold up beautifully.
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No corn syrup? Maple syrup gives a deeper, rustic sweetness.
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Add flair: Sprinkle pecans, chocolate chips, or sliced apples over the caramel before layering the bread.
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Storage: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 Cal Per Serving
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 9g