Crème Brûlée French Toast

Crème Brûlée French Toast — Decadent French Toast Recipe for Brunch

Introduction
I fell in love with Crème Brûlée French Toast the first time I tasted the crispy caramel top giving way to a custardy, pillowy center — it felt like dessert and breakfast at once. Growing up, weekend mornings meant slow, sunlit breakfasts; this recipe became my go-to when I wanted to turn an ordinary Sunday into a small celebration. Crème brûlée itself traces back to French culinary traditions (although similar custards exist across Europe), and pairing that silky custard with thick brioche or challah brings together two comforting classics: French custard and the beloved pain perdu, or “lost bread.” For more brunch inspiration, I sometimes pair this with lighter fare like avocado toast with rocket salad for a balanced table.

Who is this recipe for?

• This recipe is perfect for brunch hosts, weekend bakers, and anyone who loves a slightly indulgent breakfast that doubles as dessert. It’s approachable for beginners with a little planning (overnight soak) and impressive enough for guests.

Core ingredients overview

• This dish combines a loaf of challah or brioche with a rich custard made from eggs, half-and-half, and milk, sweetened with granulated sugar and finished with a brown sugar caramelized top — simple pantry ingredients that create a luxurious result. For other easy brunch ideas, check out this avocado toast.

Tools & Ingredients

Tools (you’ll need)

• Baking dish (9×13-inch or similar)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Kitchen torch (for caramelizing)
• Spatula or slotted spoon
• Refrigerator (for soaking)
• Oven
• Butter knife or small offset spatula (optional, for serving)

Ingredients (with benefits)

• 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread – rich, pillowy texture soaks up custard without falling apart.
• 4 large eggs – provide structure and richness to the custard.
• 1 cup half-and-half – adds creaminess and a silky mouthfeel.
• 1/2 cup whole milk – thins the custard slightly for a tender set.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – sweetens the custard evenly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances and rounds out flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar – caramelizes for the signature brûlée crust.
• Butter for cooking – helps with browning and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
• Fresh berries for serving (optional) – add brightness and a tart counterpoint to the sweet custard.

For another savory-sweet brunch idea, consider pairing components from this avocado toast with rocket salad.

Instructions

1. Slice the bread into thick slices (about 1–1½ inches) and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, making sure they are all saturated; press gently so the custard soaks in.
4. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Bake the French toast uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until it is set and golden brown on top.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top.
8. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until bubbly and golden, forming the classic brûlée crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can broil briefly — watch carefully to avoid burning.
9. Serve immediately, optionally with fresh berries and a pat of butter.

FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: You can freeze baked slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture. Note that the brûléed sugar top will not hold as well after freezing.

Q: What can I use instead of challah or brioche?
A: Sturdy, slightly sweet breads like Texas toast or a day-old French loaf work well. Avoid very airy sandwich bread that will disintegrate when soaked.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes — substitute full-fat coconut milk or a rich oat milk for the half-and-half and milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for cooking. Texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Q: How do I caramelize the sugar without a torch?
A: Use the oven broiler on high and place the dish a few inches from the heat source. Broil briefly and watch closely; rotate the dish as needed to caramelize evenly.

Tips & Tricks

• Use day-old bread: Slightly stale challah or brioche soaks up custard without becoming mushy.
• Don’t skip the chill: Refrigerating for at least 2 hours (or overnight) makes the custard penetrate deeply for a custardy center.
• Torch carefully: Move the flame steadily and keep the torch at a safe distance to avoid burning the sugar; practice on a small area first.
• Serve immediately: The brûléed crust is at its best right after caramelizing — serve straight away for the best contrast of textures. For more brunch pairing ideas, see this avocado toast recipe.

Conclusion

If you want a classic starting point with ratings and user reviews, see the Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe on Allrecipes: Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe. For an overnight bake variation that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, try Mel’s version at Overnight Creme Brûlée French Toast Bake – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe: Overnight Creme Brûlée French Toast Bake – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe. For another blogger’s take and serving ideas, check out Creme Brulee French Toast – AnotherFoodBlogger: Creme Brulee French Toast – AnotherFoodBlogger.

Enjoy this decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast and feel free to share it with friends and family — it’s one of those dishes that makes mornings feel special.