Crème Brûlée French Toast: A Decadent Breakfast Delight You Must Try

Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that will elevate your morning routine to a whole new level. Imagine the rich, creamy texture of traditional crème brûlée combined with the comforting familiarity of French toast. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to your brunch table. Originating from France, crème brûlée has long been celebrated for its luxurious custard base and caramelized sugar topping, making it a beloved dessert. By transforming this iconic dessert into a breakfast dish, we create a unique experience that captures the hearts of many.

People adore Crème Brûlée French Toast for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy, caramelized top gives way to a soft, custardy interior, making each bite a heavenly experience. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, allowing you to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a decadent breakfast, Crème Brûlée French Toast is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of brioche bread (about 1 pound), sliced into 1-inch thick slices
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
• Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Preparing the Batter

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. I love having everything ready to go! 2. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Whisk them together until they are well beaten. You want to make sure the yolks and whites are fully combined. 3. Next, add in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk. This combination is what gives the French toast its rich and creamy texture. Whisk these ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. 4. Now, it’s time to sweeten things up! Add in the 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. The aroma of vanilla and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!

Soaking the Bread

5. Take your sliced brioche bread and arrange it in a large baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish, but any large dish will work. You want to make sure the slices fit snugly but not overcrowded. 6. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, ensuring that each slice is well coated. I usually start by pouring it over the center and then gently pushing the slices down with a spatula to soak up the custard. 7. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it soak overnight is even better! This allows the bread to absorb all that delicious custard.

Cooking Process

8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take a moment to enjoy the anticipation of the delicious breakfast that’s about to happen! 9. Once the bread has soaked, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. If you soaked it overnight, you might want to let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before baking. 10. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. I like to check it around the 25-minute mark to make sure it’s not browning too quickly. If it is, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil. 11. While the French toast is baking, prepare for the caramelizing step. Once the French toast is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.

Caramelizing the Top

12. After the French toast has cooled slightly, sprinkle the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar evenly over the top. Make sure to cover it well, as this will create that signature crème brûlée crust. 13. Now, here comes the fun part! Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns a deep golden brown. Move the torch in a circular motion to ensure even caramelization. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the dish under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. 14. Once the sugar has caramelized, let it sit for a minute or two to harden. This will create that delightful crunchy top that contrasts beautifully with the soft French toast underneath.

Assembling and Serving

15. To serve, cut the crème brûlée French toast into squares or rectangles. I like to plate them individually for a more elegant presentation. 16. If you’re feeling fancy, you can dust the top with powdered sugar and add fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries work wonderfully! 17. Finally, grab a fork and dig in! The first bite will reveal the creamy custard,

Conclusion:

In summary, this Crème Brûlée French Toast is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast game. The combination of rich, creamy custard and the satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar creates a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Not only is it a showstopper for brunch gatherings, but it also makes for a cozy weekend treat that you can enjoy with your loved ones. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this decadent dish with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with different flavors by adding a hint of vanilla bean, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a splash of orange zest to the custard mixture. The possibilities are endless! I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Crème Brûlée French Toast a try. I promise it will become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve whipped up this delightful dish, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of this delicious recipe together!

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