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The Ultimate Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole

Experience the ultimate make-ahead breakfast with this decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast Casserole. This dish combines the rich, creamy custard of crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of classic French toast into one unforgettable baked casserole. With a soft, custardy interior and a perfectly caramelized sugar topping, this recipe is a true Brunch Delight. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free and impressive holiday morning or special weekend treat. This french toast casserole is guaranteed to have everyone asking for the recipe.
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Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Keyword: crème brûlée bake, french toast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, overnight french toast casserole, Savory Brunch Delight
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 485kcal

Ingredients 

Caramel Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup

Custard Mixture

  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon optional

Casserole Assembly

  • 1 loaf French bread cut into 1-inch slices

Instructions

  • Create the caramel base by melting the unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, and corn syrup together in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture occasionally until it bubbles and thickens into a smooth syrup, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Pour the finished caramel evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Arrange the 1-inch slices of French bread in a single, even layer over the caramel base in the baking dish. Overlap the slices slightly if necessary to ensure they all fit snugly. Using brioche or challah bread can create an even richer casserole.
  • Prepare the custard by whisking together the large eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, salt, and optional ground cinnamon in a medium mixing bowl until smooth. Pour this rich custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for a minimum of 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Bake the casserole by first preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is a beautiful golden brown.
  • Serve the casserole warm after letting it cool for a few minutes. Carefully invert each slice onto a plate to reveal the glossy, caramelized top. Garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Small Saucepan
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Notes

For an extra-rich flavor, substitute the French bread with brioche or challah. You can enhance the custard with a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of maple extract. Feel free to add fruit, such as fresh berries or sautéed apples, between the bread layers before chilling. For a crunchier topping similar to a traditional crème brûlée, sprinkle coarse sugar over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. A gluten-free loaf of bread can easily be substituted to make this recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

Calories: 485kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 135mg | Sodium: 450mg | Potassium: 210mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 35g | Vitamin A: 750IU | Vitamin C: 0.5mg | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 2.5mg