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The Ultimate Guide to Crème Brûlée French Toast: A Decadent Brunch Revolution

The Ultimate Guide to Crème Brûlée French Toast: A Decadent Brunch Revolution
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If you love classic French toast but want something more luxurious, this Crème Brûlée French Toast is the perfect upgrade. Thick slices of brioche soak in a creamy vanilla custard, bake until golden, and then get topped with a crackly caramelized sugar crust—just like the famous dessert. It’s easy enough for a weekend breakfast yet elegant enough for brunch or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  • 4 large eggs

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

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)

  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg)

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread
    Cut brioche or challah into thick slices and arrange them in a greased baking dish in a single layer.

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

  3. Soak the Bread
    Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices.
    Press down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
    Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.

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

  5. Bake the French Toast
    Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and the custard is fully set.
    Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes to crisp up the edges.

  6. Brûlée the Top
    Sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the baked French toast.

    • Use a kitchen torch to caramelize into a crackly crust
      or

    • Broil for 1–2 minutes, watching constantly to avoid burning.

  7. Serve
    Let cool slightly, then serve warm.
    Top with berries, powdered sugar, or maple syrup if desired.

Notes

  • Use stale bread — it absorbs the custard better and prevents sogginess.

  • Overnight soak = best texture! The bread becomes ultra tender and flavorful.

  • Add zest — a bit of orange or lemon zest brightens the custard beautifully.

  • Dairy-free version: Use almond/oat milk and coconut cream.

  • Lower calorie option: Replace heavy cream with milk and reduce sugar by half.

  • Add-ins: Try sliced bananas, blueberries, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-creme-brulee-french-toast-a-decadent-brunch-revolution/