Indulge in a decadent twist on a classic breakfast with this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast. Rich, golden, and with a perfectly caramelized topping, this make-ahead casserole brings the indulgence of crème brûlée to your morning table. A delightful combination of fluffy French toast soaked in a sweet, creamy mixture, topped with a crispy caramel crust, this recipe is sure to become a brunch favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is an absolute showstopper for any brunch or special occasion. The caramelized crust on top adds an irresistible crunch, while the soft, custard-like interior makes each bite melt in your mouth. By preparing it the night before, you’ll save time in the morning, making it perfect for busy weekends or holiday gatherings. The golden crust is just like the top of a crème brûlée, offering a rich and decadent experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
1 loaf French bread, sliced
5 eggs
1 1/2 cups half and half
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Once melted, pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Layer the sliced French bread over the caramel mixture, ensuring the slices are evenly distributed.
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and salt.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, gently pressing down to ensure the bread soaks up the mixture.
Cover the baking dish and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up all the flavors.
In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed and golden.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. For the full crème brûlée experience, flip the casserole upside down so the caramel layer is on top!

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Different breads: While French bread is perfect for this recipe, you can substitute it with brioche, challah, or any other soft, thick bread to add a unique flavor and texture.
Fruit toppings: Add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries on top before serving for a refreshing contrast to the rich caramel layer.
Spices: Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without corn syrup?

Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, but the texture and caramelization may vary slightly.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use other types of bread like brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, to make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread as a substitute for the French bread, and check that your half and half and other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, use a non-dairy butter alternative, such as coconut oil, and swap the half and half with a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.

Can I prepare this dish without overnight refrigeration?

Yes, while overnight soaking helps the bread absorb all the flavors, you can also soak it for about 30 minutes if you’re short on time. The texture will be a bit different, but still delicious.

Can I add fruit to the casserole?

Yes, you can add fruit like sliced bananas, berries, or apples to the bread layers before pouring the egg mixture over it. This will add a sweet, fresh contrast to the rich, caramelized topping.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

The casserole is done when it’s golden brown on top and puffed up. You can also insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Can I use regular milk instead of half and half?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for half and half, though the dish will be slightly less rich.

Can I add whipped cream or syrup when serving?

Absolutely! A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup would be perfect for serving this indulgent dish.

Conclusion

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate indulgent breakfast, combining the richness of crème brûlée with the comforting familiarity of French toast. With its make-ahead convenience and stunning caramelized crust, it’s perfect for special occasions, weekend brunches, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly delicious. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make your mornings feel extra special!

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

This Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate indulgent breakfast, featuring a rich, golden, caramelized crust and a soft, custard-like interior. Made ahead the night before, this decadent dish combines the classic comfort of French toast with the elegance of crème brûlée, making it the perfect showstopper for brunch or special occasions.

Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1/2 cup butter

1 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons corn syrup

For the French Toast:

1 loaf French bread, sliced

5 eggs

1 1/2 cups half and half

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a saucepan, melt the butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
Layer the sliced French bread over the caramel mixture, ensuring the slices are evenly distributed.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and salt.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, gently pressing to ensure the bread absorbs the mixture.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until golden and puffed.
Let the casserole cool slightly, then flip the casserole upside down to reveal the caramel crust on top.

Notes

Bread Variations: Substitute French bread with brioche or challah for a different flavor and texture.
Topping Ideas: Add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the caramelized crust.
Spices: Experiment with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom in the egg mixture for added flavor.

Author: Sophia
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Make-Ahead, Holiday
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian