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A stack of two thick-cut slices of baked Crème Brûlée French Toast, showcasing the golden-brown custard-soaked bread before the sugar topping is added.

Crème Brûlée French Toast: The Ultimate Guide to a Decadent Breakfast

Discover how to make the ultimate Crème Brûlée French Toast with this easy-to-follow recipe. Features a rich custard-soaked brioche and a perfectly caramelized sugar crust for a truly decadent breakfast or brunch treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf brioche bread cut into 1-inch thick slices, preferably day-old
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup whole milk
  • 0.75 cup granulated sugar divided
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 0.25 tsp salt

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Culinary Torch (optional)
  • Mixing Bowls

Instructions
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Whisk in the heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, and salt until just combined.
  2. Arrange the brioche slices in a single layer in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for best results.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the custard is set and the tops are golden brown.
  4. Remove the French toast from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top. Using a culinary torch, heat the sugar until it melts and caramelizes into a golden, crispy crust. Alternatively, use your oven's broiler for 1-3 minutes, watching constantly.
  5. Let it cool for a minute, then serve immediately to enjoy the warm, custardy center and signature crackly topping.

Notes

Day-Old Bread is Best: Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Overnight Soak: For the most decadent flavor and texture, soak the bread in the custard overnight in the refrigerator.
Watch Closely: Whether using a torch or a broiler, the sugar can burn very quickly. Do not leave it unattended during the caramelization process.
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