Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels indulgent yet requires minimal effort in the morning, this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect treat. Imagine waking up to rich, custard-soaked bread with a golden, caramelized top – like dessert for breakfast but completely acceptable! Whether it’s for a cozy Sunday, holiday brunch, or special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love It

Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep it the night before and just bake in the morning.

Decadent Flavor – Inspired by the classic French dessert with a caramel bottom and custardy texture.

Feeds a Crowd – Perfect for families or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the caramel layer:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 tbsp corn syrup or maple syrup

For the French toast:

1 loaf French bread or brioche, sliced ¾-inch thick

5 large eggs

1½ cups whole milk

1 tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt

½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the caramel base: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir constantly until smooth and bubbling, about 3 minutes. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Layer the bread: Arrange the bread slices over the caramel in a single layer. You can overlap slightly to fit all pieces in.

3. Make the custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Pour evenly over the bread slices, pressing gently to help soak.

4. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.

5. Bake: The next morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge, uncover, and let sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

6. Serve: Let cool slightly. Scoop out servings caramel-side up and enjoy warm, optionally with whipped cream or fresh berries.

Tips & Variations

Use challah, brioche, or any sturdy bread that can hold up to soaking.

Add a splash of orange zest or a sprinkle of nutmeg for flavor depth.

If you like crispy edges, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end – but watch closely.

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast delivers a cozy yet luxurious breakfast experience without the morning rush. Prep it tonight and let the oven do the magic tomorrow!

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a rich, custardy breakfast dish with a caramelized bottom and soft brioche layers. It’s the perfect make-ahead recipe for brunches, holidays, or weekend treats. Just prep it at night, bake in the morning, and enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth texture with a sweet golden crust.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Chill Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 35 minutes mins

Servings: 8 people

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp corn syrup or maple syrup
• 1 loaf French bread or brioche sliced ¾-inch thick
• 5 large eggs
• 1½ cups whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp cinnamon optional

Method

 

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with brown sugar and corn syrup. Stir constantly until smooth and bubbling, about 3 minutes. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange bread slices over the caramel in a single layer, overlapping slightly if needed.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Pour evenly over the bread, pressing gently to soak.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove dish from fridge, let sit 15–20 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until golden and puffed.
6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired.

Notes

Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah to soak up the custard without falling apart.

For added flavor, try adding orange zest or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mix.

Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for crispy caramelized edges but watch carefully to avoid burning.