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French Toast Crème Brûlée Recipe

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4.1 from 42 reviews

This French Toast Crème Brûlée recipe combines the creamy richness of classic crème brûlée custard with the comforting texture of French toast. Thick slices of Challah or Brioche are soaked in a luscious egg and cream mixture, pan-fried until golden, then topped with granulated sugar which is caramelized to create a delicate, crispy crust reminiscent of the famous dessert’s signature finish. Perfect for a decadent brunch or special breakfast treat.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Custard Mixture

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk
  • 2 tablespoons (25 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Cooking

  • 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter (plus more as needed)
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vegetable oil (plus more as needed)
  • 4-6 slices Challah or Brioche (1 inch / 2.5 centimeters thick)
  • 1/3 cup (67 grams) granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste, ground cinnamon, and salt until completely blended and smooth.
  2. Heat Pan: Place a skillet over medium-low heat and melt the unsalted butter with the vegetable oil until combined and hot but not smoking.
  3. Soak Bread: Dip each slice of Challah or Brioche into the custard mixture, soaking for about 30 seconds to one minute per side so the bread absorbs the flavors and custard well.
  4. Cook First Side: Place the soaked bread slices into the heated skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes.
  5. Cook Other Side: Flip the bread and cook the opposite side for 1-2 minutes until also golden. Avoid letting the bread get too dark as it will cook further with the sugar layer.
  6. Repeat: Transfer cooked slices to a plate and repeat soaking and cooking with remaining bread slices, adding more butter and oil to the skillet as needed to maintain a thin cooking layer.
  7. Add Sugar Layer: Evenly sprinkle about 1 tablespoon (12 grams) of granulated sugar on the top side of each cooked French toast slice.
  8. Caramelize Sugar in Pan: Add more butter and oil to the skillet if necessary, then place the sugared bread slices back into the pan, sugar side down. Cook for 1-3 minutes until the sugar melts and forms a thin caramelized crust, lifting the sides occasionally to check the color and prevent burning.
  9. Alternative Caramelizing Method: Alternatively, use a small kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar on top of each slice until golden and crisp, or place the slices on a rimmed baking sheet and broil under a low broiler setting, watching carefully.
  10. Serve: Serve the French Toast Crème Brûlée warm with accompaniments such as fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant and indulgent breakfast or brunch.

Notes

  • Use thick-cut Challah or Brioche bread for best texture and flavor.
  • For a more intense vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste or real vanilla bean instead of extract.
  • Be careful not to burn the caramelized sugar; watch it closely when melting in the skillet or under the broiler.
  • If preferred, use a kitchen torch to caramelize sugar more evenly and precisely.
  • Add fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness with freshness.
  • This recipe is best served immediately to enjoy the crisp caramel crust.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/french-toast-creme-brulee-recipe/