Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast 🍞✨

If you’re looking for a show-stopping breakfast or brunch recipe that’s both decadent and easy to make, this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is exactly what you need. Imagine thick slices of French bread soaked in a rich, custardy mixture of eggs, cream, and vanilla, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a caramelized sugar topping that cracks just like classic crème brûlée.

The best part? You prep it the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any time you want to impress without the stress!

Why You’ll Love This Crème Brûlée French Toast

Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it the night before for a no-fuss morning.
Decadent Flavor: A creamy, custard-soaked interior with a crispy, caramelized sugar topping.
Perfect for Brunch: A crowd-pleaser that’s both elegant and comforting.
Versatile: Add your favorite fruits, spices, or toppings for endless variations.

What Does It Taste Like? 🤤

Think of your favorite creamy crème brûlée with its rich vanilla custard and crisp caramelized sugar topping. Now imagine that same flavor and texture infused into thick, pillowy slices of French bread. Each bite is soft, rich, and custardy on the inside with a crackly, golden sugar crust on top. The hint of cinnamon adds warmth, while the vanilla brings that classic, sweet depth. It’s like dessert for breakfast—but better!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick 🍞 (day-old bread works best)
5 large eggs 🥚 (for a rich, custardy base)
1 cup half-and-half 🥛 (adds creaminess)
1 cup whole milk 🥛 (balances the richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌼 (for that signature crème brûlée flavor)
2/3 cup granulated sugar 🍬 (for the custard, plus extra for caramelizing the top)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🌰 (adds a warm, subtle spice)
Pinch of salt 🧂 (enhances all the flavors)

Optional Toppings:

Fresh berries 🍓
Whipped cream
Maple syrup 🍁
Powdered sugar

Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Aluminum foil (for baking)
Spoon or spatula
Kitchen torch (optional, for caramelizing the sugar)

How to Make Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the French bread slices in the dish, slightly overlapping if needed.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, making sure each piece is well-coated. Gently press the bread down to help it absorb the custard.

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the custard.

Step 5: Bake

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the French toast from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 6: Caramelize the Sugar

Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of the French toast. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crisp. If you don’t have a torch, place the dish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning!

Step 7: Serve

Let the French toast cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Tips for Perfect Crème Brûlée French Toast

Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming too soggy.
Don’t Skip the Rest: Overnight soaking ensures the custard fully infuses the bread.
Watch the Broiler: If caramelizing under the broiler, keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Torch for the Win: A kitchen torch gives you that perfect crème brûlée crackle without overcooking the French toast.

What to Serve with Crème Brûlée French Toast

Fresh Fruit: Berries, sliced bananas, or citrus segments.
Savory Sides: Crispy bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a balanced meal.
Beverages: Coffee, mimosas, or a refreshing glass of orange juice.
Yogurt Parfaits: For a light, creamy contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm individual slices in the oven at 300°F for 10–15 minutes to keep the texture crisp, or microwave in 30-second bursts.
Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this without refrigerating overnight?
Yes, but for best results, let it soak for at least 4 hours. This allows the custard to fully absorb into the bread.

2. What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?
No problem! Use your oven’s broiler for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the sugar. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.

3. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or sourdough work beautifully for a slightly different texture and flavor.

4. How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The center should be set but slightly soft, and a knife inserted should come out clean. The top will be golden and slightly crisp.

Wrapping It Up 🍞✨

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate indulgent breakfast—rich, creamy, and topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust that cracks beautifully with every bite. It’s easy to make, perfect for special occasions, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest or Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. 😍

Craving More Breakfast Delights?

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Lemon Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes
Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Happy brunching, and enjoy every luscious, caramelized bite! 😊🍯🍓