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Crème Brûlée French Toast

A baked, caramel-topped twist on traditional French toast that makes mornings a celebration with its rich custardy interior and crisp caramel crust.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 345
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the custard mixture
  • 4 large eggs Room temperature for smoother custard.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Full-fat gives rich texture.
  • 1 cup milk Whole milk is ideal.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Mixes easily into custard.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness.
For the bread and topping
  • 1 loaf French bread Slightly stale works best for soaking.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Light brown adds molasses warmth for caramelizing on top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Slice the French bread into thick slices and arrange them snugly in a greased baking dish.
  2. Whisk eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla, and salt in a bowl until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing down gently so each slice soaks up the mixture.
  4. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and let the chilled dish sit for 10 minutes while the oven heats.
  2. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the center feels set and the top turns light golden.
  3. Remove from the oven and sprinkle brown sugar evenly across the top.
  4. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, amber crust.
  5. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Notes

Assemble the night before and bake in the morning to save time. If the custard seems runny after baking, return it to the oven in 5-minute bursts until it firms. For added flavor, stir 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon into the custard.