Crème Brûlée French Toast
This image shows a truly indulgent take on Crème Brûlée French Toast.
It combines the custardy richness of traditional French toast with a caramelized, silky topping that mimics the classic French dessert.
Introduction
Treat yourself to the ultimate breakfast luxury.
This dish features thick-cut brioche soaked in a rich vanilla custard, pan-seared to golden perfection, and finished with a velvety glaze and fresh berries.
It delivers the perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a melt-in-your-mouth center.
Ingredients
Bread
4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread.
Liquid Base
1 cup heavy cream and 2 large eggs.
Sweetener
3 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon maple syrup.
Flavorings
1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Glaze
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk or a homemade vanilla cream sauce.
Toppings
Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and extra maple syrup.
Cooking Fat
2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
Instructions
Whisk the Custard
In a wide bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until completely smooth.
Soak the Bread
Place the thick slices into the mixture, allowing them to soak for about 60 seconds per side so they absorb the custard without falling apart.
Heat the Pan
Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble slightly.
Cook to Golden
Place the bread in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and fully set inside.
Glaze and Serve
Stack the toast, drizzle with the cream glaze while hot, and garnish generously with fresh fruit.
How to Make the Perfect Glaze
To achieve the Crème Brûlée–style finish seen in the image, prepare a simple vanilla cream glaze.
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then whisk it with 1/2 cup powdered sugar, a splash of heavy cream, and a drop of vanilla extract.
Whisk until thick but pourable.
Pour the glaze over the toast immediately after cooking so it melts into the warm crevices of the bread.
Variations
Cinnamon Crunch
Press soaked bread into crushed cornflakes before frying for extra texture.
Stuffed French Toast
Spread cream cheese or Nutella between two thinner slices before soaking and cooking together.
Zesty Twist
Add one teaspoon of orange zest to the custard for a bright, citrus aroma.
Savory-Sweet
Serve alongside crispy, lightly salted bacon to balance the richness.
Tips
Use Stale Bread
Day-old or slightly dry bread absorbs custard better and prevents sogginess.
Don’t Rush the Heat
Cook on medium-low heat so the center sets before the outside browns too quickly.
The “Sizzle” Test
Make sure the butter is hot before adding the bread to achieve crisp, golden edges.
Conclusion
Whether served for a holiday brunch or a slow Sunday morning, this Crème Brûlée French Toast is guaranteed to impress.
