Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast

Who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast? Let me introduce you to the ultimate lazy Sunday treat that’ll make your mornings extra special: Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast. This isn’t just your ordinary French toast; this is a decadent delight that marries the beloved textures and flavors of traditional French toast with the opulent essence of crème brûlée. Picture this: a serene morning, the gentle sunlight filtering through your curtains, a cup of freshly brewed coffee in hand, and a dish that’s all set to dazzle your taste buds without any morning hustle. It’s perfect for those who love a sweet start to their day or anyone eager to impress at their next brunch gathering without sacrificing that precious snooze time.

Imagine serving this with a refreshing berry salad drizzled with honey or maple syrup—what a way to balance the richness! Or perhaps pair it with some crispy bacon or savory sausage to juxtapose the sweetness with a bit of saltiness. Intrigued? Here’s how you can bring this dreamy breakfast to your table.

Servings: 6

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

DIRECTIONS:

Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay the bread slices in a snug, single layer, overlapping slightly if needed.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and sugary.

Evenly pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring every piece is luxuriously soaked.

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.

Come morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and scatter small butter pieces across the bread, then sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for a touch of sweetness.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until the bread is puffed and golden, resembling a crisp autumn day.

Let it cool briefly, then, for the pièce de résistance, sprinkle a bit more sugar on top and broil until the sugar caramelizes into a crackling, golden crust.

Serve warm with maple syrup and enjoy the divine combination of textures and flavors.

Variations & Tips:

For a dairy-free option, use almond or coconut milk in place of half-and-half and milk.

Add a zest of orange or a splash of bourbon to the custard for an extra fancy twist.

Don’t skip the overnight soak; it’s crucial for achieving that custardy richness.

If you’re short on time in the morning, forego the broiling step and simply dust with powdered sugar.

Remember, cooking is about joy! Make this recipe your own and enjoy every moment of it.

Now, who’s ready to make their mornings a bit more gourmet with minimal effort?