Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent twist on a classic breakfast favorite. With a rich custard base infused with vanilla and cinnamon, and a crispy caramelized sugar topping, this dish makes any morning feel special and indulgent.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (12-14 slices)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cut the brioche or challah into thick slices and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the custard over the bread slices, pressing down gently so they soak up the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Step 5: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set. For a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes if desired.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar evenly over the top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy crust, or place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
7. Step 7: Let the French toast cool slightly before serving. Add fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup if you like.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole grain or gluten-free bread to add fiber and suit dietary needs.
• Substitute low-fat milk and cream to lower calories without losing creaminess.
• Replace granulated sugar with honey or a sugar substitute for a different sweetness.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the crispy top, or warm in the microwave if in a hurry (though the crust may soften).

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, soaking the bread overnight in the custard makes the flavors richer and the texture more custardy. You can keep it refrigerated overnight before baking.

What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can place the French toast under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sugar. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

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4.7 from 78 reviews

Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent twist on classic French toast, combining the rich, creamy custard flavors of crème brûlée with the comforting texture of brioche or challah bread. This baked recipe features a caramelized sugar crust on top, creating a perfect balance of creamy custard and crispy caramelized sugar. Ideal for a special brunch or a cozy breakfast treat.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes plus soaking time (minimum 30 minutes, ideally overnight)
• Yield: 12–14 slices, serves 6-8 people 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French-American

Ingredients

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Bread

• 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread (12–14 slices)

Custard Mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the brioche or challah into thick slices and arrange them evenly in a greased baking dish to ensure even soaking and baking.
2. Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread slices, gently pressing down with a spatula to help each slice absorb the custard. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the bread to soak fully; for best flavor and texture, soak overnight.
4. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the custard-soaked bread.
5. Bake the French Toast: Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the custard is set and the top surface turns golden brown. For an added crisp top, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
6. Brûlée the Top: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over the baked French toast. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar to form a crisp, golden crust. Alternatively, use the oven broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to achieve perfect caramelization.
7. Serve: Allow the French toast to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired, enhancing the rich flavors and presentation.

Notes

• Use whole grain or gluten-free bread as a nutritious alternative to add more fiber to the dish.
• To reduce calories, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with low-fat milk and half-and-half.
• Replace granulated sugar with honey or a sugar substitute to accommodate dietary preferences or reduce refined sugar intake.

Keywords: Crème Brûlée French Toast, baked French toast, crème brûlée custard, brioche French toast, dessert-style breakfast, caramelized sugar toast