Decadent, custardy French toast with a caramelized top—perfect for holidays, brunches, or a make-ahead weekend treat.
This overnight French toast bake is rich, sweet, and crispy on top, soft and custardy underneath, and absolutely melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Plus, you can prep it the night before!
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 8)
For the Casserole:
- Brioche or challah bread (day-old preferred) – 400g, cut into 2.5–3 cm cubes
- Eggs – 6 large
- Whole milk – 300ml
- Heavy cream – 150ml
- Brown sugar – 100g
- White granulated sugar – 50g
- Vanilla extract – 2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp
- Salt – ¼ tsp
For the Caramel Layer:
- Unsalted butter – 85g (6 tbsp)
- Brown sugar – 100g
- Maple syrup or honey – 2 tablespoon (optional)
For the Brûlée Topping (optional but amazing):
- White sugar – 2–3 tbsp, for sprinkling and torching
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and maple syrup (if using) and stir until combined and slightly bubbling, about 2 minutes.
Pour this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch (or similar) casserole dish.
2. Assemble the Casserole
Scatter the bread cubes evenly over the caramel layer.
3. Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, white sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Pour and Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread down to ensure it absorbs the liquid. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Bake
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and the custard is fully set in the center.
6. Optional Brûlée Finish
Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoon of sugar evenly over the top and carefully torch it with a kitchen torch until it melts and caramelizes (like the top of traditional crème brûlée). Let it cool for a few minutes to harden into a sweet, crackly crust.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Add fresh berries, caramelized bananas, or toasted pecans for texture.
- Pair with bacon, sausage, or fresh fruit salad for a balanced brunch spread.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Make it boozy: Add 1 tablespoon of rum or brandy to the custard for an adult twist.
- Bread swap: Use croissants or French baguette for different textures.
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- Mini casseroles: Portion into ramekins for individual servings!
🧬 Nutrition Info (Per serving – approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~9g |
| Fat | ~18g |
| Carbs | ~38g |
| Sugar | ~20g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
📝 Final Thoughts
This Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole is your go-to for impressing guests or indulging in a dreamy weekend brunch. With the perfect contrast of creamy center and caramelized top, every bite is pure joy.
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