Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delicious twist on two breakfast favorites rolled into one. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard, then cooked to golden perfection with a crisp sugar glaze on top that cracks delightfully with each bite—just like the classic crème brûlée dessert.
I love making this when I want to treat myself or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet, creamy custard flavor shines through every bite, and that crispy caramelized sugar topping adds a fun texture that makes it extra special. I usually sprinkle a little cinnamon into the custard mix for a cozy touch.
My favorite way to enjoy this is with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup on the side, making each mouthful feel light and indulgent all at once. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is really easy to make, perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions. Once you try it, I bet you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brioche or Challah Bread: These breads have a soft, slightly sweet texture that soaks up the custard well without falling apart. If you can’t find them, thick-cut Texas toast or a dense white bread work well too.
Heavy Cream & Milk: Heavy cream creates a rich custard, but you can use all whole milk for a lighter version. Avoid skim milk—it won’t give the same creamy texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sugar sweetens the custard and creates the crunchy topping. For caramelizing, use granulated sugar, not powdered sugar, because it melts nicely and crisps up perfectly.
Vanilla Extract & Cinnamon: Vanilla is key to that classic crème brûlée flavor. Cinnamon is optional but adds warmth—I like to add just a pinch for subtle spice.
Mixed Berries: Fresh berries balance the richness with a little tartness and freshness. You can use any berries you have on hand or even sliced bananas for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Perfect Caramelized Sugar Crust on Top?
The caramelized top is what sets this French toast apart. Here’s how to get that crackly, shiny crust:
- Evenly sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on the cooked French toast slices.
- Use your oven’s broiler on high, placing the toast about 6 inches below the heat source.
- Broil for 1-3 minutes, watching constantly so the sugar melts and bubbles but doesn’t burn.
- If you have a kitchen torch, you can use it to caramelize the sugar more precisely. Just move the flame evenly over the sugar until it melts and browns.
Make sure your toast is on a sturdy baking sheet lined with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Serve immediately so the crust stays crisp. The contrast between the creamy custard inside and the crispy sugar top is the best part!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – I use it to whisk together the custard ingredients easily and quickly.
- Shallow dish or baking sheet – perfect for dipping the bread slices and soaking up the custard.
- Skillet or griddle – gets the French toast golden and crispy on the outside.
- Slotted spatula – helps you flip the bread without breaking it apart.
- Broiler or kitchen torch – used to caramelize the sugar topping till crisp and shiny.
- Wire rack or plate – for cooling the French toast before adding the toppings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use different breads like croissants or thick sourdough for unique flavors and textures.
- Add a splash of bourbon, Grand Marnier, or almond extract to the custard for a grown-up twist.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, on top before caramelizing for crunch and flavor.
- Toss in chocolate chips or swirled berries into the custard for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
Crème Brûlée French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Custard & Toast:
- 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing tops)
- Mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Add 5-10 minutes if you plan to caramelize the sugar topping using your oven’s broiler or a kitchen torch. Serve right away for the best crispy texture on top.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is smooth and combined.
2. Soak the Bread:
Pour the custard mixture into a shallow dish. Dip each slice of bread into the custard, letting it soak for about 20 to 30 seconds per side. The bread should absorb the custard but not become too soggy.
3. Cook the French Toast:
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add soaked bread slices and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use the remaining butter to cook the rest of the bread.
4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping:
Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the cooked French toast slices on a foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly on top of each slice. Broil for 1-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the sugar melts and forms a crisp, golden crust. You can also use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar more precisely.
5. Finish and Serve:
Transfer the French toast to serving plates. Top with fresh mixed berries and a dollop of whipped cream. Lightly dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the bread completely before soaking it in the custard. Stale or day-old bread works best, as it soaks up the custard well without falling apart.
How Do I Store Leftover Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, but note that the caramelized sugar topping may lose its crispness.
Can I Skip the Caramelized Sugar Topping?
You can, but the caramelized sugar adds a signature crunch and flavor reminiscent of classic crème brûlée. If you don’t have a broiler or torch, enjoy it plain or sprinkle powdered sugar instead.
What Bread Works Best for This Recipe?
Brioche and challah are ideal because of their soft texture and slight sweetness. Thick-cut Texas toast or French bread are good alternatives if you can’t find them.
