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A close-up shows a golden-brown stack of Crème Brûlée French Toast, topped with caramelized sugar and fresh berries.

Crème Brûlée French Toast Ultimate

Indulge in the ultimate breakfast experience with Crème Brûlée French Toast. This decadent treat features custard-soaked brioche bread topped with a caramelized sugar crust, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will elevate your morning.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: French-American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for sprinkling
  • Butter, for greasing the pan
  • Maple syrup, for drizzling optional
  • Fresh berries, for garnish optional
  • Whipped cream, for extra indulgence optional

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • whisk
  • Shallow dish (baking dish or pie plate)
  • Large skillet or griddle
  • spatula
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • kitchen torch or broiler
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (if using) until well combined and the sugar is dissolved.
  2. Pour the custard into a shallow dish.
  3. Dip each slice of bread into the custard, making sure both sides are well coated.
  4. Let the bread soak for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until saturated but not falling apart.
  5. Lightly grease a large skillet or griddle with butter.
  6. Heat the skillet over medium heat.
  7. Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it.
  8. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  9. Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  10. Sprinkle each slice of French toast generously with granulated sugar.
  11. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it's golden brown and bubbly. Alternatively, broil the French toast in the oven for a minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning.
  12. Serve the Crème Brûlée French Toast immediately, while the sugar is still warm and crispy.
  13. Drizzle with maple syrup (if desired), and garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream.

Notes

For best results, use slightly stale bread. If using fresh bread, leave the slices out overnight to dry slightly. Don't over-whisk the custard. If the French toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat. Keep the kitchen torch moving to prevent burning the sugar. To thicken the custard, add a tablespoon or two of flour. Soak the bread overnight in the refrigerator for an even richer flavor. The custard can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Try adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a bright flavor. Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger. Add a splash of your favorite liqueur to the custard, such as Grand Marnier, Frangelico, or Amaretto. Top with bananas, strawberries, or blueberries.