Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step 3: Soak the Bread Overnight

Arrange the bread slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping if needed. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure each slice absorbs the liquid.
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or at least 6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to soak fully.

Step 4: Bake the French Toast

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the French toast from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. The center should be soft but not jiggly.

Step 5: Add the Crème Brûlée Finish

Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the baked French toast. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a torch, place the French toast under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the French toast into individual portions and serve immediately. For extra flair, garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the creamy custard, caramelized sugar, and soft, buttery bread creates an unforgettable brunch experience.

Tips for the Perfect Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

1. Use slightly stale bread: It soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
2. Don’t skip the overnight soak: This step is what makes the French toast creamy and custardy inside.
3. Control your caramelization: Use a torch for precision; under the broiler, sugar can burn quickly.
4. Customize flavors: Add a splash of orange liqueur, almond extract, or nutmeg for a unique twist.

Conclusion
Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is more than breakfast—it’s a luxurious treat that turns any morning into a special occasion. Its creamy custard, soft bread, and caramelized topping are a combination that will impress guests or satisfy your weekend indulgence cravings. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for home cooking.

If you want, I can also create a short, easy-to-follow “quick steps” version of this recipe that’s perfect for a one-page handout or brunch menu.

Do you want me to do that?