Introduction

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delightful fusion of a traditional French dessert and a classic breakfast dish. It offers the creamy, caramelized flavors of crème brûlée in a satisfying, custardy toast form. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast, this dish will leave everyone impressed with its rich taste and easy preparation.

History

Crème brûlée, meaning “burnt cream” in French, has origins in 17th-century Europe and is known for its rich custard base topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. This recipe draws inspiration from that luxurious dessert and reimagines it in the form of a breakfast dish. Combining the flavors of custard and caramelized sugar with bread, it has become a popular brunch item that celebrates the best of French culinary heritage.

Benefits

This dish provides a delicious balance of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, making it a satisfying option for breakfast. The eggs offer essential proteins, while milk and butter contribute calcium and healthy fats. By baking the dish instead of frying, it also reduces the need for added oil, making it a lighter option compared to some traditional breakfast items.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer in the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
2. In a large bowl, combine eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended together.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, making sure all the bread is soaked.
4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
5. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap.
6. Dot the top of the bread with small pieces of the butter and sprinkle with a little sugar.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the toast is puffed up and golden.
8. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle the top with additional sugar and briefly broil until the sugar caramelizes.
9. Serve with a side of maple syrup and any suggested sides.

Methods

The key to this recipe is soaking the bread overnight, allowing it to absorb the egg custard fully. This ensures a creamy, custardy texture that resembles crème brûlée. Caramelizing the sugar topping in the final stage gives it a satisfying crunch, similar to the traditional dessert.

Nutrition

Calories per serving: 420 kcal | Total Fat: 19g | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 9g | Calcium: 104 mg | Iron: 2.5 mg.

Lovers of the Dish

This dish is adored by lovers of both sweet breakfasts and traditional French cuisine. It’s a favorite at brunch gatherings, perfect for family events, and cherished by anyone who enjoys a luxurious start to their day with a hint of French flair.

Conclusion

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast combines the elegance of French desserts with the comfort of a hearty breakfast. Its make-ahead convenience, creamy custard texture, and caramelized topping make it an ideal dish for special mornings. Give this recipe a try and experience a French-inspired breakfast your guests will love.