Crème Brûlée French Toast

Name: Crème Brûlée French Toast
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread; 6 large eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Sugar for caramelizing

Author: Emily

Published: 26 May 2025

Updated: 6 January 2026

why make this recipe

I love a recipe that feels fancy but is actually easy. This Crème Brûlée French Toast gives you silky custard and a crisp caramel top. It tastes like dessert for breakfast. It also uses simple pantry ingredients and a loaf of bread. If you like rustic loaves, I often reach for a loaf from my favorite sourdough French bread. It soaks up the custard and bakes into tender slices.

how to make Crème Brûlée French Toast

Ingredients:
1 loaf of French bread, 6 large eggs, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon salt, Sugar for caramelizing

Crème Brûlée French Toast

Directions:

Slice the French bread into thick slices and arrange them in a baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture over the bread, making sure all slices are coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake the French toast for 30-35 minutes until it’s set and lightly golden.
Once baked, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

If you make bread at home, you can swap in a loaf from an easy sourdough discard recipe I love for extra flavor. Try the easy sourdough discard French bread when you want a rustic, chewy base.

how to serve Crème Brûlée French Toast

Serve warm. Slice and break through the crisp sugar top with the back of your spoon. Add a few fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar if you like. I also enjoy pairing this with something bright and savory to balance the sweetness. A simple side like avocado toast with eggs complements it nicely on a brunch spread.

how to store Crème Brûlée French Toast

Cool completely before storing. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 325°F oven until warm. If you have a torch, freshen the sugar top after reheating for that crisp finish. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped well for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Crème Brûlée French Toast

Use day-old or slightly stale bread. It soaks up the custard without falling apart. Whisk the custard until smooth and pour slowly so the bread soaks evenly. Chill at least two hours. Overnight gives the best texture. When torching, move in small circles and watch closely. If you don’t have a torch, broil briefly on low until the sugar melts and browns. For a quick breakfast companion, try a speedy avocado toast from my go-to quick avocado toast recipe.

variation (if any)

Make individual ramekins. Cut bread into cubes and press into ramekins. Pour the custard and bake the same way. You can also add a splash of orange liqueur or cinnamon to the custard for a twist. If you prefer a tangier base, use slices from a different loaf like the sturdy sourdough French bread I often turn to.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Yes. Brioche makes it richer. Sourdough gives a chewy texture. Day-old bread works best.

Q: How do I get the perfect caramelized top without a torch?
A: Use the oven broiler. Watch closely and move the pan if one spot browns faster. Broil on low and stop when it turns golden.

Q: Can I make this ahead for guests?
A: Yes. Assemble and chill overnight. Bake in the morning and caramelize the top just before serving.

Crème Brûlée French Toast

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