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Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

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4.7 from 601 reviews

This Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe creates a luscious breakfast treat that combines the rich custard flavor of classic crème brûlée with the satisfying texture of French toast. Using a loaf of brioche or challah bread, soaked in a creamy mixture of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, and aromatic vanilla and cinnamon, it is then cooked to golden perfection. The result is a decadent, custardy French toast with a hint of warm spice, perfect for a luxurious weekend brunch or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

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 Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and smooth.
  2. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly soaked but not overly saturated to prevent sogginess. Let the bread rest in the mixture for about 30 seconds to absorb the flavors well.
  3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread is golden brown and cooked through, with a slight crust forming on the outside.
  5. Serve Warm: Transfer the cooked French toast to plates. Optionally, sprinkle with additional sugar and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the top for a true crème brûlée effect. Serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream as desired.

Notes

  • Use thick slices of brioche or challah for best texture and custard absorption.
  • For dairy-free options, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
  • Vanilla bean paste offers a more intense flavor, but vanilla extract works perfectly well.
  • Caramelizing sugar on top with a kitchen torch is optional but provides an authentic burnt sugar crust reminiscent of crème brûlée.
  • Keep cooked slices warm in an oven set to 200°F (90°C) while finishing the batch.

Keywords: Crème Brûlée French Toast, Brioche French Toast, Custard French Toast, Vanilla French Toast, Breakfast, Brunch

Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/creme-brulee-french-toast-recipe/