Crème Brûlée French Toast is a sumptuous twist on the classic breakfast favorite, combining the creamy richness of custard-soaked bread with the crisp caramelized topping reminiscent of the famed French dessert.
This make-ahead dish is perfect for special occasions, holiday brunches, or leisurely weekend mornings.
Why Choose Crème Brûlée French Toast?
The allure of this dish lies in its luxurious texture and flavor, achieved through an overnight soak that allows the custard to fully permeate the bread. The result is a soft, creamy interior contrasted by a golden, caramelized sugar crust.
Preparing it the night before not only enhances the flavor but also frees up your morning, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or treating yourself to a gourmet breakfast without the morning rush.
Essential Ingredients
To create this indulgent dish, you’ll need:
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1 loaf of French bread, sliced 1-inch thick
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5 large eggs
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1 cup half-and-half
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1 cup whole milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
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1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
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Maple syrup, for serving
Preparation Steps
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer, slightly overlapping if necessary.
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Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well-combined.
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Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring every slice is thoroughly coated. Use a spatula or your hands to gently press the bread into the custard.
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Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
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Bake the French Toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and discard the plastic wrap. Dot the bread with small pieces of butter and sprinkle a light layer of sugar over the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed and golden.
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Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top of the bread. Use a kitchen torch or the broiler setting on your oven to caramelize the sugar until it is golden and crisp. Learn more Here.
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Serve: Allow the French toast to cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup and enjoy!
Tips for Success
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Bread Selection: Use slightly stale bread for the best texture. Thick slices of French bread, brioche, or challah work best as they hold up to the custard without becoming too soggy.
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Custard Tips: Whisk the custard thoroughly to ensure the sugar and spices dissolve evenly. Adding a dash of orange zest or almond extract can give the custard a unique flavor twist.
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Overnight Soaking: Be sure to press the bread gently into the custard during assembly to ensure every slice is thoroughly soaked. This step ensures a creamy interior after baking.
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Caramelized Topping: A thin, even layer of sugar on top is key for achieving that signature crunch. Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent burning.
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Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy topping.
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Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, use full-fat coconut milk or almond milk in place of the half-and-half and milk. Gluten-free bread can also be used for those with dietary restrictions.
For even more hand-held breakfast hits, check out our Sausage Egg and Cheese Breakfast Roll-Ups—savory, filling, and perfect for on-the-go mornings.
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss our Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups—a delightful twist on a breakfast classic that everyone loves.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Crème Brûlée French Toast with toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of chocolate or flavored syrups can elevate the dish further.
Conclusion
Crème Brûlée French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s an experience that brings the elegance of a classic French dessert to your morning table. With its rich custard base, caramelized sugar topping, and the convenience of overnight preparation, it’s a recipe that promises to impress and delight.
Whether for a festive brunch or a cozy weekend treat, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite.