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Overnight Caramel French Toast4
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Overnight Caramel French Toast

This Overnight Caramel French Toast is a rich and indulgent breakfast dish featuring thick bread soaked in a caramel custard overnight, then baked to golden perfection for a comforting and easy morning treat.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time50 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Caramel, Comfort Food, Easy, French Toast, Make Ahead, Overnight
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or any soft white bread) about 10-12 slices
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk or your preferred milk alternative
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Sauce:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
  • Optional toppings chopped nuts, sea salt flakes, fresh berries, or whipped cream

Instructions

  • Start by making the rich caramel sauce that will soak into the bread and add that irresistible flavor. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar. Stir constantly as it melts and turns a deep amber color. Be patient—this process takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the sugar is fully melted and golden, carefully add the butter, stirring until it’s completely combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let the mixture boil for 1 minute until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
  • Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures the French toast doesn’t stick during baking and makes for easy serving.
  • Slice your bread into thick pieces, about 1-inch thick. Arrange half of the slices in the baking dish in a single layer. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly over the bread. Place the remaining slices on top and pour the rest of the caramel sauce over them. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the caramel evenly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and combined.
  • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and caramel, ensuring all pieces get soaked. Lightly press down on the bread slices so they absorb the custard fully.
  • Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to soak up the custard and caramel flavors deeply.
  • In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
  • Let the French toast cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional caramel sauce, a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh berries, or whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spoon or spatula

Notes

Use thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best results. If short on time, soak for at least 4 hours instead of overnight. Be careful when caramelizing sugar to avoid burning. Customize with spices, fruits, nuts, or chocolate as desired. Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.