Name: Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 8 slices thick-cut brioche bread; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 4 large eggs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 tablespoons butter, for frying; 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for caramelizing

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Crispy, caramelized sugar cracking with the tap of a spoon gives way to a soft, custardy interior. This Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast is a sweet symphony of textures and flavors, bringing the elegance of a classic French dessert to your breakfast table. The creamy vanilla-infused custard soaks into thick slices of brioche, creating a rich and satisfying base that’s then elevated by the perfectly brûléed topping.

This recipe works because of the balance it strikes. The brioche provides a sturdy structure that can absorb the custard without becoming soggy. The custard itself is a simple yet effective blend of cream, eggs, and vanilla, creating that signature crème brûlée flavor. And the final caramelization step adds both visual appeal and a delightful textural contrast. This French toast is perfect for weekend brunch, special occasions, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something truly indulgent.

Why you’ll love this Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast with Creme Brulee French Toast

Indulge in a breakfast that tastes like dessert – this is truly a decadent treat.
Impress your guests with a sophisticated brunch that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Enjoy the satisfying crack of the caramelized sugar, a signature of crème brûlée.
The creamy, vanilla-infused custard makes this creme brulee french toast a family favorite.
This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weekend mornings.
Customize your toppings with fresh berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup for an extra special touch.

Ingredients & Substitutions

8 slices thick-cut brioche bread
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
4 large eggs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter, for frying
1/4 cup granulated sugar, for caramelizing

Creme brulee french toast makes every moment feel velvety. For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter for frying. You can also use a plant-based milk alternative, like oat milk, for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the custard’s texture.

How to make Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, eggs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until well combined. Ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated for a smooth and consistent custard.

Step 2: Soak the Brioche

Dip each slice of brioche bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly soaked. Allow the bread to soak for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is saturated but not falling apart.

Chef’s Tip: Day-old brioche works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming overly soggy.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place 2-4 slices of soaked bread into the skillet (depending on the size of your skillet) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Repeat and Caramelize

Repeat with the remaining butter and bread slices. Place the cooked French toast slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle each slice evenly with the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.

Step 5: Brûlée the Sugar

Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar on top of each slice until golden brown and bubbly. Alternatively, you can broil the French toast in the oven for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Chef’s Tip: If using a broiler, keep a close eye on the French toast to prevent burning. The sugar should melt and caramelize quickly.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious crème brûlée French toast!

Tips for Success

Use day-old brioche bread for optimal soaking and texture.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the French toast; cook in batches to ensure even browning.
If using a kitchen torch, keep it moving to prevent burning the sugar in one spot.
Watch closely if broiling the French toast, as the sugar can burn quickly.

Serving Suggestions

This Crème Brûlée French Toast is fantastic on its own, but it’s even better with a few accompaniments. Serve it with fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries, for a touch of freshness and acidity. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup adds extra sweetness. For a complete brunch, consider serving it alongside a savory dish like a breakfast casserole or breakfast pizza. Check out this fun recipe for English muffin breakfast pizza to pair with your french toast. Find that recipe here

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Crème Brûlée French Toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. The caramelized sugar may soften slightly upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this French toast?

Freezing is not recommended, as the custard and caramelized sugar can change texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No problem! You can use the broiler in your oven, but be sure to watch it very closely to prevent burning. The sugar should melt and caramelize quickly.

This Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of the creamy custard, the perfectly cooked brioche, and the satisfyingly crisp caramelized sugar creates a truly unforgettable breakfast experience. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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