Best Crème Brûlée French Toast – Decadent, Caramelized & Irresistible
Indulge in Crème Brûlée French Toast with a perfectly caramelized sugar topping and creamy custard center! This decadent breakfast or brunch treat combines the elegance of crème brûlée with the comfort of French toast. Easy to make, impressive to serve, and absolutely delicious.
Equipment
- Skillet or oven-safe pan
- Culinary torch (or broiler)
- Whisk
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow pan for custard soaking
- Optional: Baking sheet, wire rack, spatula
Ingredients
- 4 thick slices brioche, challah, or pain de mie
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for brûlée)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional flavor enhancers: orange zest, cinnamon, liqueur (Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
- Garnishes: fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup
Instructions
- Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and optional flavorings until smooth.
- Soak bread slices in custard for 20–30 seconds per side.
- Heat a greased skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Cook bread slices 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Optional: Transfer to oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to fully set custard.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar evenly on top of each slice. Caramelize sugar with a culinary torch or broiler until golden and crisp.
- Serve immediately, garnished with berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
- Slightly stale bread absorbs custard better without becoming soggy.
- Brûlée sugar topping should be added and caramelized just before serving for maximum crunch.
- Customize with nuts, chocolate chips, spices, or liqueurs for added flavor variations.
- For a vegan option, use plant-based milk, egg replacers, and coconut cream.