Crème Brûlée French Toast
Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent breakfast recipe that merges the creamy richness of classic crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast. Featuring thick slices of custard-soaked brioche or challah topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust, this indulgent dish offers a perfect balance of creamy softness and satisfyingly crunchy sweetness — ideal for special mornings or brunch gatherings.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 slices 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying and caramelizing
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Contains Gluten and Dairy
Custard Base
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
French Toast
- 6 thick slices brioche or challah bread
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- Prepare the Custard Mixture: Whisk together heavy cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This rich custard mixture is the foundation of your Crème Brûlée French Toast.
- Soak the Bread: Dip thick slices of brioche or challah bread into the custard, allowing each side to soak for about a minute until deeply saturated but still holding its shape; be careful not to let it become soggy.
- Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each soaked slice until golden brown and slightly crispy on both sides, ensuring the inside remains soft and custardy.
- Add the Sugar Topping: Evenly sprinkle granulated sugar over the cooked French toast slices. Using a kitchen torch or broiler, caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust that cracks under your fork.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the caramelized Crème Brûlée French Toast to plates and enjoy while the contrast between the warm, soft bread and crunchy sugar topping is at its best.
Notes
- Use day-old brioche or challah bread for optimal custard absorption and texture.
- Soak the bread carefully to prevent tearing and maintain shape.
- A kitchen torch is recommended for precise caramelization but the oven broiler can be used as an alternative.
- Cook on medium to medium-low heat to ensure thorough cooking without burning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
Keywords: Crème Brûlée, French Toast, Custard French Toast, Caramelized Sugar, Brioche French Toast, Indulgent Breakfast