This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe offers a delicious and decadent breakfast that’s easy to prepare the night before. With a rich custard base, perfectly toasted French bread, and a caramelized sugar topping, it’s the ultimate indulgence for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a special occasion.

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Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
  • French bread holds the custard mixture well and gives the toast a perfect balance of crispy edges and soft centers.
• 5 large eggs
  • Eggs create the custard-like base that soaks into the bread.
• 1 cup half-and-half
  • The combination of cream and milk provides a rich, velvety texture to the custard.
• 1 cup whole milk
  • Adds to the creaminess of the custard, making the French toast soft and decadent.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the custard mixture.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
  • Provides sweetness and contributes to the caramelized topping.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A warm spice that complements the vanilla and enhances the flavor of the custard.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Adds depth and complexity to the French toast’s flavor.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • Adds richness and helps crisp up the edges of the toast as it bakes.
• Maple syrup, for serving
  • Completes the dish with a sweet, golden drizzle.

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the French Toast

1. Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the French toast from sticking.
2. Arrange the sliced French bread in a single layer in the dish, packing them closely together to ensure even soaking.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • 5 large eggs
   • 1 cup half-and-half
   • 1 cup whole milk
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

1. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring that each slice is well-soaked. You may want to press down slightly on the bread to make sure it absorbs the mixture fully.
2. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6-8 hours). This allows the bread to soak up the custard and enhances the flavor.

Step 4: Bake the French Toast

1. The next morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish.
3. Dot the soaked bread slices with small pieces of unsalted butter and sprinkle granulated sugar evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the toast is golden brown, puffed, and slightly crispy around the edges.

Step 5: Caramelize the Sugar

1. After baking, let the French toast cool for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle extra sugar on top, then broil briefly in the oven for 1-2 minutes, just until the sugar melts and caramelizes to create a crunchy, crème brûlée-like topping.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the French toast warm, drizzling with maple syrup for added sweetness.
2. Enjoy this indulgent breakfast!

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Tips for Success:

• Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for preparing the night before, so you can enjoy a delicious breakfast with minimal effort the next morning.
• Caramelizing the Sugar: Be careful when broiling the sugar to avoid burning. Watch closely as it melts to achieve that perfect crème brûlée crunch.
• Customization: Feel free to add toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra special touch.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35-40 minutes

Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Servings: 6-8

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a breakfast showstopper, rich and custardy with a crunchy, caramelized sugar topping that feels like dessert for breakfast. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch, a holiday morning, or any day when you want to treat yourself!