Luxurious Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Ready in: 1 hour 10 minutes · Serves: 8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Quick Answer

Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious, indulgent dish that combines the flavors of classic crème brûlée with the comfort of French toast, perfect for holiday gatherings.

As the leaves begin to change here in New York City and the air carries hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, my thoughts drift to the upcoming holiday season. Thanksgiving and Christmas are not just about gatherings; they are opportunities to showcase dishes that bring loved ones together. One dish I can't wait to serve at my festive brunches? Crème Brûlée French Toast, affectionately dubbed "Marry Me French Toast." This dish perfectly marries the luxuriousness of classic crème brûlée with the comfort of French toast, making it a delightful centerpiece for any holiday table.

A Cozy Holiday Treat

This Crème Brûlée French Toast is sure to impress your family and friends this holiday season. Embrace the warmth of the season, and enjoy crafting this delightful dish together!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Indulge in the creamy combination of classic crème brûlée and comforting French toast.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
• Versatile and easy to customize with various toppings and flavors.
• Can be prepared ahead of time, making your holiday brunch stress-free.
• Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

To master this impressive recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

Bread and Custard Base

• 1 loaf of brioche bread (about 16 ounces, preferably a day or two old)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of whole milk
• 1 cup of granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
• 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter (for greasing)

How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast (Step-by-Step)

Follow these simple steps to create your own Crème Brûlée French Toast.

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by slicing your brioche into thick pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches. It should feel slightly firm but soft enough to absorb the custard. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish to enhance the flavors and help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is completely combined. You want to see a glossy texture-whisking will enhance the creaminess that makes each bite so special.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Arrange the brioche slices in the baking dish, overlapping them slightly for even coverage. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring it seeps into every nook and cranny. I like to gently press down on the bread to guarantee full absorption. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it soak in the refrigerator for at least one hour-or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Bake

Remove the dish from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center has a slight jiggle. The aroma of the baking custard will enchant your kitchen, hinting at the delightful treat that awaits.

Step 5: Caramelize the Sugar

Once the French toast is baked to perfection, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the top. Using a kitchen torch or broiler, carefully caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns golden brown, creating that signature crème brûlée crust. Just make sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 6: Serve

Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, topped with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Fresh Bread: Day-old brioche is key for better absorption of the custard.
• Skipping the Soaking Time: Make sure to let the bread soak for at least one hour.
• Burning the Sugar: Watch carefully when caramelizing the sugar to avoid a burnt crust.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist.
• Add crushed almonds or pecans before baking for extra texture.
• Prepare your French toast the night before and let it soak overnight for added flavor.
• Consider serving with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Variations

• Use challah bread instead of brioche for a different flavor.
• Replace whole milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Add fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or peaches, into the custard mixture.
• Incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent touch.

How to Serve

• Top with fresh berries and whipped cream.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.
• Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a savory balance.
• Garnish with a mint sprig for a pop of color and freshness.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors.
• Serve with my See also: Simple Garlic Roasted Green Beans.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Assemble the dish the night before and let it soak overnight in the refrigerator.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a quick treat that's almost as good as freshly made.
• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish as it may alter the texture.

Recipe Notes / What I Learned

Testing this Crème Brûlée French Toast reaffirmed how crucial soaking time is; it makes a world of difference in texture and flavor. As I enjoyed each luscious bite, I couldn't help but think how this dish would be a showstopper at any festive gathering.

Yield and Serving Size

Yield: 8 servings · Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutrition Snapshot

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 8g protein · 45g carbs · 22g fat

FAQs