The custard is the heart of this Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast, delivering its signature creaminess and flavor. Made with a blend of rich dairy, eggs, and aromatic spices, this mixture ensures each slice of bread becomes a custardy delight.
Ingredients for the Custard:
Eggs: Use large eggs as the base for a smooth, cohesive custard.
Dairy: Combine half-and-half and whole milk for a balance of richness and lightness. For alternatives, try oat milk or coconut cream.
Sweeteners and Spices: Whisk in granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth and depth.
Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract enhances the dessert-like quality of the dish. For insights into the role of vanilla in custards, visit What is Vanilla Extract?.
Preparation Tips:
Whisk thoroughly to ensure the sugar and spices dissolve completely.
Avoid over-whisking, as it can create bubbles that affect the texture.
Consider adding a twist like orange zest or a splash of rum extract for a unique flavor profile.
Once the custard is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish and let the magic happen overnight.
Assembly and Overnight Soaking
The assembly process is where the Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast comes to life. Layering the bread and custard correctly ensures each slice soaks up the rich flavors and bakes to perfection.
Step-by-Step Assembly:
Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add a subtle richness.
Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, ensuring they fit snugly but aren’t overlapping.
Slowly pour the prepared custard mixture over the bread, taking care to coat each piece evenly.
Allow the bread to soak for a few minutes, then gently press down with a spatula to help absorb the liquid fully. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This extended soaking period allows the bread to absorb the custard, ensuring a creamy, pudding-like texture when baked.
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