Description
This Crème Brûlée French Toast features luscious brioche bread soaked in a creamy custard, topped with a caramelized brown sugar crust. Ideal for brunch or a special breakfast, it promises a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf of brioche bread (about 1 pound), sliced into 1-inch thick slices
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and whisk them until well beaten.
- Add 1 cup of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream to the eggs. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Continue whisking until fully incorporated and the sugar has dissolved.
- Set the batter aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the bread.
- Slice the loaf of brioche bread into 1-inch thick slices (about 8-10 slices).
- In a large baking dish or shallow pan, arrange the slices of brioche bread in a single layer.
- Pour the prepared batter evenly over the slices, ensuring each slice is well coated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) with the oven rack positioned in the center.
- Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. If there’s excess liquid, gently press the bread to remove it, but do not squeeze it dry.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of brown sugar evenly over the top of the soaked bread.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Cut the baked French toast into squares or rectangles.
- Serve a piece on a plate, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Add fresh berries on the side for color and flavor.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for an extra indulgent experience.
- Enjoy warm, savoring the creamy custard and caramelized sugar topping!
Notes
- For the best flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste.
- Soaking the bread overnight is key for a custardy texture; if short on time, aim for at least 2 hours.
- Feel free to experiment with different toppings or add-ins, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes