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Crème Brûlée French Toast

Crème Brûlée French Toast
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This Crème Brûlée French Toast is the ultimate breakfast-meets-dessert treat. Soft, custardy brioche soaked in a rich vanilla cream mixture is baked until golden, then finished with a crisp caramelized sugar topping—just like classic crème brûlée. It’s indulgent, cozy, and perfect for weekend brunch, holidays, or any morning when you want something extra special with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)

  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg)

  • Pinch of salt

  • Extra granulated sugar, for brûlée topping

Optional for Serving

  • Fresh berries

  • Powdered sugar

  • Maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread
    Grease a baking dish and arrange the bread slices in an even layer.

  2. Make the Custard
    In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.

  3. Soak the Bread
    Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press down so all slices absorb the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.

  4. Preheat the Oven
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Bake
    Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set. For extra color, broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.

  6. Brûlée the Top
    Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over the top. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize until crisp, or broil briefly until the sugar melts and hardens.

  7. Serve
    Let cool slightly. Top with berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup if desired.

Notes

  • Overnight soak = best results: Deeper flavor and creamier center.

  • Thin sugar layer: Too much sugar won’t caramelize evenly.

  • No torch? The broiler works—just watch carefully to avoid burning.

  • Flavor twist: Add orange zest or a splash of bourbon to the custard.

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