How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast

Indulge in the luxurious taste of “Decadent Dawn: Crème Brûlée French Toast,” a breakfast dish that transforms the classic flavors of crème brûlée into a sumptuous morning treat. This recipe combines the creamy, custard-like base of traditional crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast, creating an irresistible dish topped with a delightfully crisp, caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for a special brunch or an indulgent breakfast, this French toast is sure to impress with its sophisticated flavors and elegant presentation.

Why You’ll Love Crème Brûlée French Toast:

• Rich and Flavorful: Merges the rich, vanilla-infused custard of crème brûlée with the hearty satisfaction of French toast.
• Elegant Yet Easy: Simple enough for a novice cook yet elegant enough to feel like a gourmet treat.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Ideal for holidays, celebrations, or whenever you want to start the day with something extraordinary.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Can be prepared in advance and finished in the morning for a fuss-free brunch.

Ingredients Notes For Crème Brûlée French Toast:

• Bread: Thick slices of brioche or challah bread work best, as they are sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
• Eggs and Heavy Cream: Form the base of the custard, making it rich and velvety.
• Vanilla Extract and Orange Zest: Enhance the custard with warm, citrusy notes.
• Granulated Sugar: For creating the signature caramelized top.
• Whole Milk: Can be used to lighten the custard a bit, while still keeping it creamy.
• Butter: For cooking the toast to golden perfection.

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, vanilla extract, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. This mixture should be thoroughly combined to ensure the flavors meld together.
2. Soak the Bread:
   • Dip the slices of brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak for a few minutes on each side. They should be fully saturated but not falling apart.
3. Cook the French Toast:
   • Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the soaked bread slices to the skillet, cooking until golden brown on both sides. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Caramelize the Sugar:
   • Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over one side of each cooked French toast slice. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns golden. Alternatively, you can broil the sugared slices in the oven for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
5. Serve Immediately:
   • Serve the French toast warm, sugared side up. Garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Storage Options:

• Refrigerate: If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture.

How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast

INGREDIENTS

For the French Toast:

• 1 loaf French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
• 5 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the Caramelized Topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup (or maple syrup for a different flavor)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Arrange the bread slices in a single layer in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping if necessary.
2. Make the Custard Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
   • Pour this mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring all are well-coated. Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for the best results.
3. Prepare the Caramelized Topping:
   • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in brown sugar and corn syrup, and continue to cook until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
   • Pour this mixture over the soaked bread slices, spreading it evenly across the top.
4. Bake the French Toast:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Bake the French toast for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and caramelized and the custard is set.
5. Serve:
   • Let the French toast cool slightly before serving.
   • Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve with additional syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream.