Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delicious twist on two classic favorites rolled into one. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a sweet, creamy custard, then cooked until golden and topped with that signature crunchy, caramelized sugar layer—just like the popular dessert. It’s sweet, smooth, and crispy all at once, making breakfast feel extra special.
I love making this when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. A quick tip: using day-old bread works wonders because it soaks up the custard perfectly without falling apart. I also like to sprinkle a little cinnamon or vanilla into the custard for an added flavor boost that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing.
This French toast is my go-to for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions since it feels fancy but is super easy to prepare. I like serving it with fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup to balance the sweetness. It always brings a smile to the table and makes everyone feel like they’re treating themselves—because who doesn’t deserve that on a slow morning?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah is ideal because they’re rich and soft, soaking up the custard without falling apart. If you don’t have them, thick slices of Texas toast or sourdough work well too.
Heavy Cream & Milk: Heavy cream creates that creamy custard texture, but you can use all milk if you want a lighter option. Whole milk is best for richness.
Vanilla & Cinnamon: Vanilla extract adds warmth, while cinnamon gives a gentle spice. Both are personal favorites to boost flavor. You can skip cinnamon if you prefer a purer vanilla taste.
Granulated Sugar (for caramelizing): Don’t skip this—it’s what makes the crisp brûlée topping so special. If you can’t use white sugar, brown sugar can give a deeper flavor, but watch the broiling time closely.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for cooking since it lets you control saltiness. You could use oil, but butter adds a great flavor and helps get a golden crust.
How Can I Get a Perfect Crunchy Sugar Crust on My French Toast?
The brûlée topping is the star here and can be tricky without the right technique. Here’s how to get that perfect crispy caramel sugar crust:
- After cooking the French toast, sprinkle an even, thin layer of granulated sugar on top. Too thick, and it won’t caramelize well.
- If you have a kitchen torch, hold it a few inches away and gently move it back and forth until the sugar melts and forms a golden, crispy crust. Avoid burning by keeping the torch moving.
- If you use the oven broiler, place the toast on the top rack and watch closely for 2-3 minutes. Remove as soon as the sugar bubbles and browns.
- Let the sugar cool for a minute; it will harden as it cools, creating that satisfying crack when you bite in.
Practicing your torch or broiler technique will give better results each time. I’ve found that a small, even amount of sugar and patience during caramelizing are key for success!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – I like using a big bowl to whisk the custard ingredients easily.
- Whisk or fork – helps you blend everything smoothly without lumps.
- Cast-iron skillet or griddle – great for even heat and browning to get that perfect crust.
- Spatula – for flipping the French toast gently so it doesn’t fall apart.
- Kitchen torch or broiler – essential for caramelizing the sugar topping and creating that crispy crust.
- Baking sheet (optional) – for transferring the toast to finish with sugar on top if you prefer broiling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries into the topping or alongside for extra freshness and color.
- Swirl in a spoonful of fruit jam or preserves into the custard for a fruity surprise in every bite.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts such as almonds or pecans on top before caramelizing for added crunch and flavor.
- Add a dash of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Amaretto to the custard for a boozy, grown-up twist.
How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Custard & Toast:
- 4 thick slices brioche or challah bread (preferably day-old)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For The Topping & Garnish:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing tops)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh strawberries and mixed berries, sliced, for topping
- Whipped cream, for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook, plus a few extra minutes to caramelize the sugar topping. Overall, plan for around 20-25 minutes from start to finish to enjoy a freshly made, fancy-feeling breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, ½ cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon (if using), until everything is smooth and well combined.
2. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter to coat the pan. Dip each slice of bread gently but thoroughly into the custard, making sure both sides soak up the mixture without falling apart. Place the soaked bread onto the heated skillet, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Add the remaining butter as needed for browning.
3. Caramelize the Sugar Topping:
Transfer the cooked French toast slices to a baking sheet. Evenly sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar on top of each slice. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and forms a golden, crispy crust—just like crème brûlée. If you don’t have a torch, place the slices under a preheated oven broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
4. Serve & Garnish:
Plate the French toast, then pile on fresh sliced strawberries and mixed berries. Dust with powdered sugar, add a dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with a fresh mint leaf if you like. Drizzle with maple syrup and serve your delicious crème brûlée French toast right away while warm and crisp!
Can I Use Frozen Bread for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the bread before soaking it in the custard to avoid sogginess. Thaw overnight in the fridge or leave at room temperature for a couple of hours.
How Should 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 over low heat to maintain crispiness, or warm in the microwave and refresh the brûlée topping with a kitchen torch if you have one.
Can I Make the Custard Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before dipping your bread.
What Can I Substitute for a Kitchen Torch?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. Place the French toast on the top rack and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning the sugar.
