Print

Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 67 reviews

Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Crème Brûlée French Toast, a perfect brunch treat that combines the custardy texture of crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of French toast. This recipe features thick slices of bread soaked in a vanilla and cinnamon-infused custard, cooked to golden perfection, then topped with a caramelized sugar crust for a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Mixture

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the French Toast

  • 6 thick slices brioche or challah bread
  • Butter, for cooking

Topping

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for caramelizing
  • Fresh berries, optional
  • Maple syrup, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
  2. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, allowing the bread to soak up the custard thoroughly for about 20-30 seconds each side. Be careful not to oversoak to avoid sogginess.
  3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add a generous knob of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan evenly.
  4. Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices into the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as necessary to avoid burning.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar: Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the cooked French toast slices. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust, similar to traditional crème brûlée. Alternatively, place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
  6. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh berries and maple syrup if desired for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.

Notes

  • Use thick slices of bread like brioche or challah for the best texture and custard absorption.
  • A kitchen torch is preferred for caramelizing the sugar to get an even crust without warming the toast too much.
  • If you don’t have a torch, use your oven’s broiler but monitor carefully to avoid burning the sugar.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, but texture may vary.
  • Serve immediately after caramelizing to enjoy the contrast of crunchy top and soft interior.

Keywords: Crème Brûlée, French Toast, brunch recipe, caramelized sugar, custardy, vanilla cinnamon

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