Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and buttery brioche. This overnight crème brûlée French toast bake is a decadent and fuss-free way to enjoy a luxurious breakfast or brunch. With a crispy, caramelized top and a rich custardy base, this dish delivers all the flavors of crème brûlée combined with the comfort of classic French toast.
The best part? It’s made ahead of time! Simply prep the ingredients the night before, let them soak overnight, and bake in the morning. Whether you’re hosting a holiday breakfast, brunch with friends, or just want to treat yourself, this baked French toast casserole will impress everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepares in minutes the night before, so you can relax in the morning.
- Rich & Indulgent Flavor: The caramelized brown sugar and vanilla custard create a crème brûlée-like taste.
- Perfect for Special Occasions: Great for holidays, brunches, and weekend treats.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Reward: No flipping individual slices—just bake and serve!
- Customizable: Use different bread, add fresh fruit, or mix in spices to make it your own.
This overnight crème brûlée French toast bake is perfect for entertaining guests or meal prepping for a stress-free morning. Serve it with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup for the ultimate breakfast treat!
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
Equipment Used:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Plastic wrap
Directions & Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Base: In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the Bread: Place the sliced brioche or challah in the dish over the caramel mixture.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and maple syrup until fully combined.
- Soak Overnight: Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the French toast bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and fresh berries for a finishing touch!
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fats: 14g
- Sugar: 25g
This overnight crème brûlée French toast is a rich and indulgent treat. For a lighter version, swap whole milk for almond milk and reduce the sugar slightly.
Prep Time and Cook Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (plus overnight soak)
Variations:
- Berry Version: Add fresh raspberries or blueberries between the bread layers.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds on top before baking.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin spice mix for a fall-inspired twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of bread?
A: Yes! Brioche and challah work best, but you can also use French bread or Texas toast.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I freeze this French toast bake?
A: Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pro Tips By Lynda:
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry bread soaks up the custard better.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Arrange the slices evenly to allow for even baking.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: This allows the caramelized layer to set properly.
- For Extra Crunch: Sprinkle a bit of sugar on top before baking for a brûlée effect.
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a bright, fresh contrast.
- Serve with warm maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
- Pair with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a sweet-savory balance.
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake : Decadent & Easy!
Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and buttery brioche. This overnight crème brûlée French toast bake is a decadent and fuss-free way to enjoy a luxurious breakfast or brunch.
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Plastic wrap
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (sliced)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 5 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
- Prepare the Caramel Base: In a small bowl, mix melted butter and brown sugar. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the Bread: Place the sliced brioche or challah in the dish over the caramel mixture.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and maple syrup until fully combined.
- Soak Overnight: Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let the French toast bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and fresh berries for a finishing touch!
Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry bread soaks up the custard better.
Don’t Overcrowd the Dish: Arrange the slices evenly to allow for even baking.
Let It Rest Before Serving: This allows the caramelized layer to set properly.