Description
Looking for the ultimate *easy breakfast idea* that feels like dessert? This *Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast* is your golden ticket. With thick slices of bread soaked in a rich vanilla custard and baked over a buttery caramel base, this make-ahead breakfast is both decadent and stress-free. Perfect for special mornings, brunch with friends, or anytime you want an *easy recipe* that’s sure to impress. Sweet, creamy, crisp on top—this *breakfast idea* is unforgettable.
Ingredients
1 loaf (about 14 oz) brioche or challah bread, sliced thick
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
5 large eggs
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar
Instructions
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar together until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange thick slices of brioche or challah bread in the dish over the caramel base.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing the slices down gently to absorb the liquid.
5. Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
6. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Uncover and bake the dish for 40–45 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
8. Let cool for 5–10 minutes, then serve warm with optional toppings like syrup, berries, or whipped cream.
Notes
This recipe works best with day-old bread—it holds its shape and absorbs the custard better.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and cleaner.
For an extra caramelized topping, sprinkle turbinado sugar over the bread just before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: easy breakfast, brunch, crème brûlée French toast, overnight French toast, sweet breakfast, make-ahead breakfast