Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a breakfast dish that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to prepare, look no further than this Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast. This decadent treat is perfect for holiday mornings, brunch with friends, or anytime you want to indulge a little. The crunchy, caramelized top, combined with a custardy center, is simply irresistible. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect for hosting: Prepare it the night before and just bake in the morning!
- Rich and creamy texture with a delightful caramelized crust.
- A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Adaptable to suit various dietary needs with simple substitutions.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons corn syrup
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon Grand Marnier or orange juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Prepare the Caramel Base
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the brown sugar and corn syrup, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
Layer the Bread
Arrange the bread slices over the caramel layer, ensuring they fit snugly.
Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, Grand Marnier, and salt. Pour this mixture over the bread, covering every slice well.
Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Notes
- For a firmer texture, use day-old bread or lightly toast fresh bread before layering. Learn more.
- Substitute half-and-half with whole milk for a lighter version.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing the sugar to 3/4 cup.
Variations
- Berry Delight: Add a layer of fresh berries between the bread slices.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the caramel before adding the bread.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in chocolate chips with the custard.
Required Equipment
- Saucepan
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.
Suggested Pairings
Serve with a side of crispy bacon or fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded breakfast. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice complements the flavors beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Ensure even soaking by pressing down the bread slightly after pouring the custard. Read more.
- Use a serrated knife to cut the bread for a cleaner slice.
- For an extra-crispy top, sprinkle a little sugar over the bread before baking.
FAQ
- Can I use another type of bread? Yes, thick slices of French bread or sourdough work well too.
- Can I make this without Grand Marnier? Absolutely, simply replace it with equal amounts of orange juice or omit it altogether.
- How do I prevent the bread from becoming too soggy? Use slightly stale bread, or toast fresh bread slices lightly before assembling.