Crème Brûlée French Toast is a dreamy twist on the classic breakfast treat, combining the rich, creamy custard feel of crème brûlée with the warm, comforting texture of French toast. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a sweet vanilla custard, cooked to golden perfection, and topped with a crackly layer of caramelized sugar that gives just the right amount of crunch.
I love making this for special weekend mornings when I want to impress without too much fuss. The crackling sugar topping is actually really fun to create—I use a kitchen torch to caramelize it right before serving, and it always feels like a little magic moment that gets everyone excited to dig in. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference.
Serving this with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup is my favorite way to enjoy it, but honestly, it’s so good on its own that sometimes I skip the extras. The contrast between the creamy inside and crispy sugar topping makes every bite interesting, and it’s a sweet way to start the day or even enjoy as a special brunch treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brioche or Challah Bread: These breads are perfect because they soak up the custard without falling apart. If you don’t have these, thick-sliced Texas toast or French bread works as well.
Heavy Cream: This makes the custard rich and creamy. You can swap half the cream with whole milk to lighten it a bit, but the texture will be less indulgent.
Vanilla Extract: It adds warmth and sweetness to the custard. Pure vanilla extract is best, but vanilla bean paste or even a vanilla bean pod can work too for extra flavor.
Granulated Sugar for Caramelizing: Using regular granulated sugar gives you that classic brûlée crunch. If you want a different touch, turbinado or demerara sugar will caramelize nicely too.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries and blackberries brighten the dish and add freshness. Feel free to use blueberries, raspberries, or even stone fruits like peaches.
How Can I Get the Perfect Caramelized Crust on Top?
The signature crisp topping is what makes this French toast stand out. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After cooking the French toast, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top while still warm.
- Use a kitchen torch to carefully melt the sugar, moving the flame constantly so it doesn’t burn.
- The sugar will bubble and then harden into a thin, crunchy crust—watch for a golden amber color.
- If you don’t have a torch, place the toast on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Pro tip: Wait a minute or two after caramelizing before serving so the crust has time to harden fully and give you that satisfying crack when you bite into it.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Shallow dish or pie plate – Perfect for soaking the bread slices evenly.
- Mixing bowl – For whisking together the custard ingredients.
- Whisk – Keeps the custard smooth and well combined.
- Skillet or griddle – For cooking the French toast; non-stick or cast iron works well.
- Spatula – To flip the bread slices easily.
- Kitchen torch – For caramelizing the sugar topping; if you don’t have one, use the broiler.
- Serving plates – To present the final dish beautifully.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard to add warmth and spice, especially perfect for fall or winter.
- Swap the fresh berries for sliced peaches or bananas for a different fruity flavor.
- Add a splash of Kahlua or Grand Marnier to the custard for an adult twist.
- Top with toasted nuts, like almonds or pecans, for extra crunch and flavor.
How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The French Toast:
- 4 thick slices brioche or challah bread (day-old or slightly stale)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Unsalted butter, for cooking
For The Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Fresh blackberries
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and soak the bread, 8-10 minutes for cooking, and a few minutes to caramelize the sugar on top. In total, plan for about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a special weekend breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is smooth and well blended.
2. Soak the Bread:
Place the slices of bread in a shallow dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure each slice gets soaked well on both sides. Let the bread soak for 10 minutes, flipping gently halfway through so it absorbs the custard evenly.
3. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a pat of butter and let it melt until foamy. Place the soaked bread slices on the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Add more butter as needed.
4. Caramelize the Sugar Topping:
Transfer the cooked French toast to a heatproof plate. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar evenly on top of each slice. Use a kitchen torch to carefully melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust. If you don’t have a torch, put the toast under the broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Add Final Touches and Serve:
Lightly dust the French toast with powdered sugar. Add fresh strawberries, blackberries, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. Drizzle with maple syrup, then serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before soaking in the custard. Day-old or slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard better without falling apart.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have a Kitchen Torch?
No problem! You can place the French toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sugar. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and remove once the sugar bubbles and turns golden.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, then sprinkle fresh sugar and caramelize again if you want that crisp topping.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the custard-soaked bread and refrigerate it overnight. Cook and caramelize the sugar topping just before serving for the freshest texture and flavor.