Description
This decadent overnight French toast combines the creamy, custard-like texture of crème brûlée with the rich flavors of French toast. It’s prepared the night before for an easy, no-fuss breakfast or brunch that bakes into golden perfection with a crispy, caramelized sugar topping. Ideal for special occasions, this indulgent dish will have your family and guests coming back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for the topping
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer in the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until well-blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, making sure all the bread is soaked.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
- Dot the top of the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle a little sugar over the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the toast is puffed up and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle the top with additional sugar and broil briefly until the sugar caramelizes.
- Serve with a side of maple syrup and any suggested sides.
Notes
- This dish is perfect for making ahead of time for a stress-free breakfast or brunch.
- For extra indulgence, top with whipped cream or fresh berries for a delicious twist.
- You can also serve it with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a savory complement to the sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/6th of the dish)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 195mg