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Crème Brûlée French Toast

Crème Brûlée French Toast
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Crème Brûlée French Toast is an elegant and indulgent breakfast dish combining the rich, creamy custard base of traditional crème brûlée with the golden, caramelized crust of French toast. Featuring fluffy bread soaked in a silky custard mixture and topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust, this recipe transforms any morning into a special occasion with simple ingredients and a perfect balance of textures.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 8 thick slices Brioche or Challah bread (day-old preferred)

Custard Mixture

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Topping and Cooking

  • Turbinado or Demerara sugar (for caramelizing on top)
  • Butter (for cooking, about 2–3 tablespoons)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This custard infuses the bread with silky richness.
  2. Soak the Bread: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, soaking for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side. Ensure the bread absorbs the custard without becoming soggy or falling apart.
  3. Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat. Melt 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of butter to prepare for cooking and to help develop a golden crust.
  4. Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden and slightly crisp, ensuring the custard cooks through evenly without burning.
  5. Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Sprinkle an even layer of turbinado or Demerara sugar over each cooked slice. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until a crispy, golden crust forms, reminiscent of classic crème brûlée. If no torch is available, use a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for better custard absorption and to prevent mushiness.
  • Keep the custard chilled for at least 30 minutes before soaking for a thicker coating.
  • Soak both sides of the bread evenly for consistent texture and flavor.
  • Cook over medium heat to ensure a golden crust without burning and fully cooked interiors.
  • A kitchen torch provides the best, even caramelization without overheating the toast.
  • Don’t skip using butter; it adds flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crème Brûlée French Toast, Custard French Toast, Caramelized French Toast, Elegant Breakfast, Brunch Recipe

Find it online: https://eazyum.com/crme-brle-french-toast/