A delicious and indulgent overnight French toast recipe that combines the rich flavors of crème brûlée with the ease of an overnight prep.
Author:Emma Rossi
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:Overnight + 40 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Baking
Cuisine:French
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 loaf French bread, sliced 2.5 cm thick
5 large eggs
240 ml half-and-half
240 ml whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
133 g granulated sugar, divided, plus additional for topping
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
60 g unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
Generously butter a 23×33 cm baking dish. Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping as needed.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 133 g granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully incorporated.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the bread into the custard.
Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Preheat oven to 175°C. Remove the baking dish from refrigeration, discarding the plastic wrap. Dot the bread with small butter pieces and sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar atop. Bake for 35–40 minutes until puffed and golden brown.
After baking, let rest slightly. Evenly sprinkle granulated sugar over the surface. Using a kitchen torch or oven broiler, caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
Allow to cool for several minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup. Optionally, garnish with fresh fruit or whipped cream as desired.
Notes
Make sure to use stale bread for the best texture.
This dish can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for brunches.
Feel free to add toppings like nuts or berries as desired.