Best Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast Bake – Make Ahead Brunch Recipe
A decadent, overnight breakfast bake layered with soft bread soaked in a silky vanilla custard and topped with a buttery brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The edges turn golden and slightly crisp while the center stays rich and pudding-like, creating the perfect balance of texture and sweetness. Ideal for holiday mornings or relaxed weekend brunches, this make-ahead casserole lets you wake up to a warm, indulgent dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
2 tablespoons (30 ml) pure maple syrup
1 large loaf French bread (about 16 oz / 450 g), cut into 1-inch slices
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon (15 ml) pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in brown sugar and maple syrup until smooth. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Arrange bread slices in a single layer over the caramel mixture.
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In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
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Pour custard evenly over bread. Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours.
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Let casserole sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
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Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes until golden and set. Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For best texture, use slightly stale bread.
If top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 4 days or frozen up to 2 months.