Okay, I had no idea you could do this to French Toast! Seriously impressed!

Okay, let’s get real for a moment. Who doesn't adore breakfast or brunch on those slow Sunday mornings when the sunlight is just peeking through the blinds, and the coffee aroma fills the air? It's bliss. But you know what's even better? Making it a stress-free affair. That’s where Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast comes in. Originating from the classic French toast we all grew up loving, this dish takes it up a notch by infusing the luxurious flavors of a crème brûlée. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but without the hassle because all the prep work is done the night before!

Who might want to make this? Anyone who's got a sweet tooth for breakfast or wants to impress at the next brunch but also values that extra half-hour of sleep. Trust me, make this once, and your taste buds will be sending you thank you cards.

A side of fresh berry salad drizzled with a touch of honey or maple syrup harmonizes beautifully with the rich tones of the toast. And if you really want to wow your guests or treat yourself, serve it alongside some crispy bacon or savory sausage links to add that perfect salty contrast to the dish's sweetness.

Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
Servings: 6

- 1 loaf of French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
- 5 large eggs
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for the topping
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving

1. Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange slices of French bread in a single layer in the dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.

2. In a large bowl, combine eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, 2/3 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is beautifully blended together.

3. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, making sure all the bread is soaked. At this point, you can whisper sweet encouragements for a better-soaked toast if you like.

4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let this all marinate in the fridge overnight, giving the flavors time to get to know each other really well.

5. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap because it's showtime for that French toast.

6. Dot the top of the bread with small pieces of the butter and sprinkle with a little sugar — because who can resist a tiny bit more sweetness?

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the toast is puffed up and golden like a sunny, crisp autumn morning.

8. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. For that brûlée effect, sprinkle the top with additional sugar and briefly broil until the sugar caramelizes, creating a delightful crunch.

9. Serve with a side of maple syrup and any of the sides suggested above.

- For a dairy-free version, swap out the half-and-half and milk for your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond or coconut milk.
- Feel free to infuse the custard with orange zest or a splash of bourbon for a fancier twist.
- Don't skip the overnight soak — it really does ensure every bite of your French toast is custardy and full of flavor.
- If you're in a rush in the morning, you can skip the caramelized sugar topping and serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar instead.
- And remember: the best recipes are made with love, so have fun with it!