Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe | Easy Caramelized Breakfast

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I never thought I’d be the type of person who caramelizes sugar on top of breakfast food. That changed one Sunday morning when I decided to combine two of my absolute favorite things: French toast and crème brûlée.

The result was nothing short of magical. Imagine thick slices of French toast with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust that cracks under your fork, revealing custardy, vanilla-scented bread underneath.

This crème brûlée French toast recipe transforms an ordinary breakfast into something extraordinary. The custard-soaked bread gets golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft inside, and that caramelized sugar topping adds the perfect sweet crunch that makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes
Servings	6 slices
Difficulty Level	Easy

You may also like my Creme Brulee Recipe.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

The first time I made this for my family, my daughter actually squealed with delight when she cracked through the caramelized sugar crust. That’s the kind of breakfast magic we’re talking about here.

This recipe takes the comfort of traditional French toast and elevates it to restaurant-quality brunch status. The caramelized sugar creates a satisfying crackle that contrasts beautifully with the soft, custardy interior.

Here’s what makes this recipe truly special:

Restaurant-quality results at home – You’ll get that signature crème brûlée crackle without needing professional kitchen equipment
Rich, custardy texture – The egg mixture creates an incredibly creamy interior that melts in your mouth
Perfect balance of flavors – Vanilla, cinnamon, and caramelized sugar work together harmoniously
Impressive presentation – This looks like something from a fancy brunch menu but comes together easily
Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare the custard mixture the night before for stress-free morning cooking
Customizable sweetness – Adjust the sugar topping to your preference

Try my Creme Brulee Cheesecake Recipe.

Ingredients

The ingredients for this crème brûlée French toast are surprisingly simple, though each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect custardy texture and caramelized topping. I’ve learned through trial and error that using quality ingredients really does make a difference here.

6 thick slices of brioche bread (about 1 inch or 2.5 cm thick) – Day-old bread actually works better because it soaks up the custard without getting soggy
4 large eggs
1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream – This is what makes it taste like crème brûlée
1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk – Balances the richness of the cream
3 tablespoons (38 g) granulated sugar – For the custard mixture
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Use the good stuff for authentic crème brûlée flavor
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter – For cooking
6 tablespoons (75 g) turbinado sugar – For the caramelized topping (regular granulated sugar works too, but turbinado gives better texture)
Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
Pure maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Another favorite: Pumpkin French Toast Recipe

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes all the difference when you’re trying to achieve that perfect caramelized sugar crust. I used to try this with just a regular pan and struggled for ages before investing in a kitchen torch, which completely changed my crème brûlée French toast game.

Large shallow dish or 9×13-inch baking dish – For soaking the bread
Medium mixing bowl – To whisk together the custard
Wire whisk – For combining ingredients smoothly
Kitchen torch – Essential for caramelizing the sugar topping (this is the one special tool you really need)
Non-stick skillet or griddle – For cooking the French toast
Wide spatula – For flipping without breaking
Measuring cups and spoons
Small saucepan – For warming the maple syrup if desired
Tongs – Helpful for handling the hot toast
Cooling rack – Optional but helps prevent the bottom from getting soggy

Recommended Products for This Recipe

After making this crème brûlée French toast dozens of times, I’ve found that certain products genuinely improve the results. These are the items I reach for every single time I make this recipe.

1. Culinary Kitchen Torch

This is the one tool that transforms regular French toast into crème brûlée French toast. I tried using my oven’s broiler for years, but a kitchen torch gives you so much more control over the caramelization. You can target specific spots, avoid burning the edges, and get that perfect glassy sugar crust every time.

Get it on Amazon

2. Brioche Bread Loaf

Not all bread is created equal for this recipe. Brioche’s buttery richness and tender crumb make it ideal for soaking up custard without falling apart. I buy mine from a local bakery, but high-quality packaged brioche works beautifully too.

Get it on Amazon

3. Turbinado Sugar (Raw Sugar)

Regular granulated sugar works in a pinch, but turbinado sugar creates a more interesting texture and deeper caramel flavor. Those larger crystals give you that satisfying crunch that makes crème brûlée so addictive.

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4. Nielsen-Massey Pure Vanilla Extract

Since vanilla is such a prominent flavor in this dish, using a high-quality extract makes a noticeable difference. This brand has a rich, complex vanilla flavor that really shines through in the custard.

Get it on Amazon

5. Lodge Cast Iron Griddle

While any non-stick surface works, I love using my cast iron griddle for French toast. It distributes heat evenly, so you get consistent browning across all your slices. Plus, it holds heat well, which is crucial when you’re cooking multiple batches.

Get it on Amazon

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast

This process is surprisingly straightforward once you understand the key steps. I’ll walk you through exactly how I make perfect crème brûlée French toast every time, with all the little details that make the difference between good and extraordinary.

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture

Crack the 4 eggs into a medium mixing bowl and whisk them thoroughly until the yolks and whites are completely combined and the mixture is uniform in color (about 30 seconds of vigorous whisking).
Add the heavy cream, whole milk, 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt to the eggs.
Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved completely (you shouldn’t feel any graininess when you dip your finger in and rub it between your fingers).
Pour this custard mixture into your large shallow dish or 9×13-inch baking dish, which makes it easier to soak the bread evenly.

Read Also: Baked Oatmeal Recipe

2. Soak the Bread

Lay the 6 thick slices of brioche bread in the custard mixture in a single layer (if they don’t all fit, work in batches).
Let the bread soak for 2-3 minutes on the first side, gently pressing down occasionally with your fingers to help the custard absorb into the bread (you want it to soak through but not fall apart).
Carefully flip each slice using a wide spatula and let soak for another 2-3 minutes on the second side.
The bread should feel heavy and saturated but still hold its shape when you lift it (if it’s falling apart, you’ve soaked it too long; if it feels light, give it more time).

3. Heat Your Cooking Surface

Place your non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up for about 2-3 minutes (you can test if it’s ready by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate quickly).
Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and let it melt completely, swirling it around to coat the entire cooking surface.
The butter should foam slightly but not brown (if it’s turning brown immediately, your heat is too high; reduce it to medium-low).

4. Cook the French Toast

Using a wide spatula, carefully lift one piece of custard-soaked bread, letting excess liquid drip back into the dish for a few seconds (this prevents the pan from getting too wet and ensures better browning).
Gently lay the bread in the hot buttered pan, being careful not to splash (you can cook 2-3 pieces at once depending on your pan size, but don’t overcrowd).
Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving the bread (resist the urge to peek too early; let it develop that golden-brown crust).
Check the underside by gently lifting one edge with your spatula; it should be deep golden brown with some darker spots.
Flip the bread carefully and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side until equally golden.
Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving platter or individual plates (I like to place them on a cooling rack set over a baking sheet to prevent the bottoms from getting soggy while I finish cooking the rest).
Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed between batches.

You might also enjoy: Homemade Biscuit Recipe

5. Add the Caramelized Sugar Topping

Arrange the cooked French toast slices on a heat-safe surface or leave them on their serving plates (make sure nothing flammable is nearby).
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of turbinado sugar evenly over the top of each slice, making sure to cover the entire surface in an even layer (too much sugar in one spot will burn before the rest caramelizes; too little won’t give you that satisfying crack).
Hold your kitchen torch about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) away from the sugar at a 45-degree angle and move it in slow, circular motions over the surface.
Watch as the sugar melts, bubbles, and turns a deep amber color (this usually takes 30-60 seconds per slice, depending on your torch’s intensity).
The sugar should look glossy and deep golden-brown, not black (if it starts smoking or turning black, you’ve gone too far; move the torch away immediately).
Let the caramelized sugar cool and harden for about 1-2 minutes before serving (it will be extremely hot at first and needs time to set into that signature crispy shell).

6. Serve and Enjoy

Top the crème brûlée French toast with fresh berries if using (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries all work beautifully and add a nice tartness that balances the sweet caramel).
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation (just a light sprinkle through a fine-mesh sieve gives it that professional look).
Serve immediately while the caramelized topping is still crispy (this is crucial; the longer it sits, the more the sugar absorbs moisture from the French toast and loses its crackle).
Offer warm maple syrup on the side for those who want extra sweetness (I actually prefer mine without syrup because the caramelized sugar provides plenty of sweetness, but some people love the combination).

This pairs beautifully with my Breakfast Burrito Recipe for a complete brunch spread.

Tips for The Best Crème Brûlée French Toast

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and I’ve definitely learned a few things along the way. These tips will help you avoid the mistakes I made when I was perfecting this recipe.

Use day-old bread for the best texture – Fresh bread is too soft and can become mushy when soaked in custard; bread that’s been sitting out for 24 hours has a slightly firmer texture that holds up perfectly (if you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by laying the slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F or 95°C oven for 10 minutes)
Don’t over-soak the bread – While you want the custard to penetrate the bread, soaking it for too long will cause it to fall apart when you try to flip it; 2-3 minutes per side is the sweet spot
Control your heat carefully – Medium heat is crucial; too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks through, too low and you’ll get pale, soggy French toast without that golden crust
Keep the first batch warm – If you’re cooking multiple batches, keep finished slices in a 200°F (95°C) oven on a baking sheet until you’re ready to caramelize the sugar (just don’t stack them or they’ll get soggy)
Master the torch technique – Keep the flame moving constantly in circular motions to avoid burning spots; the sugar should melt evenly and turn amber, not black
Time your caramelization right – Torch the sugar topping just before serving; if you do it too early, the sugar will absorb moisture from the French toast and lose its crunch
Use the right sugar – Turbinado sugar creates a better texture than regular granulated sugar, but if you only have granulated, it will still work (avoid brown sugar, which doesn’t caramelize as nicely)
Let the butter foam, not brown – Brown butter will add a nutty flavor that can overpower the vanilla; you want melted, foamy butter that’s still golden-yellow in color
Add vanilla to the custard, not the pan – I once tried adding vanilla extract directly to the pan and it just burned; it needs to be mixed into the custard where it can properly flavor the bread
Serve immediately – The contrast between the crispy caramelized top and soft custard interior is at its peak right after torching; waiting even 10 minutes will cause the topping to soften

Another favorite: Shakshuka Recipe

Serving Suggestions

Crème brûlée French toast is already pretty indulgent on its own, but there are so many wonderful ways to round out the meal or add complementary flavors. I love serving this as the centerpiece of a special brunch with several side options.

Here are my favorite ways to serve this decadent breakfast:

Fresh Berry Medley – A mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries adds tartness that cuts through the richness and provides beautiful color contrast
Whipped Cream or Mascarpone – A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or mascarpone cheese adds extra luxury without overwhelming the dish
Crispy Bacon or Sausage Balls – The salty, savory contrast is absolutely perfect with the sweet French toast
Greek Yogurt – A spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt on the side adds protein and balances all that sweetness
Fruit Compote – Warm Strawberry Sauce or a berry compote drizzled over the top adds another layer of flavor
Nuts and Seeds – Toasted pecans, almonds, or sliced almonds add crunch and nuttiness that complements the caramel
Coffee or Tea – A strong cup of coffee or Earl Grey tea is the perfect beverage pairing for this rich breakfast
Mimosas or Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice – For a special brunch, a sparkling mimosa or freshly squeezed citrus juice adds a celebratory touch

Read Also: Avocado Toast Recipe

Variations of Crème Brûlée French Toast

Once you master the basic technique, there are endless ways to customize this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. I love experimenting with flavor variations, and here are the ones that have been the biggest hits in my kitchen.

Chocolate Lover’s Version – Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the custard mixture and sprinkle some chocolate chips on top before torching for a decadent chocolate crème brûlée French toast
Orange Crème Brûlée French Toast – Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest and 2 tablespoons of orange juice to the custard mixture for a bright citrus twist that tastes like a Dreamsicle
Almond Crème Brûlée French Toast – Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract and top with toasted sliced almonds for a nutty variation
Pumpkin Spice Version – Add 3 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the custard for a fall-inspired breakfast treat
Stuffed Crème Brûlée French Toast – Spread cream cheese, Nutella, or jam between two slices of bread before soaking for an extra-indulgent stuffed version
Challah or Croissant Base – Substitute brioche with thick slices of challah bread or even day-old croissants cut in half horizontally for different textures
Dairy-Free Version – Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and plant-based milk in place of regular milk (the texture won’t be quite as rich, but it’s still delicious)
Espresso Crème Brûlée French Toast – Add 2 tablespoons of strong espresso or espresso powder to the custard for a coffee-flavored version
Berry-Stuffed Version – Place fresh berries between two thinner slices of bread to create a berry-stuffed pocket before soaking
Banana Foster Style – Top the finished French toast with caramelized bananas and a splash of rum for a New Orleans-inspired variation

You might also enjoy: Easy Pancake Recipe

Storage and Reheating

While crème brûlée French toast is absolutely best enjoyed fresh, life happens, and sometimes you need to prepare components ahead or save leftovers. Here’s what I’ve learned about storing and reheating this dish while maintaining as much of that magical texture as possible.

Refrigerating Cooked French Toast – Store the cooked French toast (before adding the caramelized sugar topping) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; layer parchment paper between slices to prevent them from sticking together
Freezing for Later – The cooked French toast freezes beautifully for up to 1 month; wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag with as much air removed as possible
Reheating in the Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the French toast on a baking sheet in a single layer; heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through, then add the sugar topping and torch just before serving
Reheating in the Toaster Oven – This is my favorite method for 1-2 slices; toast on medium heat for 3-4 minutes until warmed and slightly crispy again
Reheating from Frozen – You can reheat frozen French toast directly in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 12-15 minutes without thawing first
Never Pre-Torch the Sugar – Always add and caramelize the sugar topping just before serving; pre-torched sugar will absorb moisture and become soggy during storage
Make-Ahead Custard – The custard mixture can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container; just give it a quick whisk before using
Don’t Microwave – Microwaving makes the French toast rubbery and soggy; always use the oven or toaster oven for reheating
Room Temperature Warning – Don’t leave cooked French toast at room temperature for more than 2 hours due to the egg content; refrigerate promptly if you’re not eating it right away

Read Also: Air Fryer Pancake Recipe

Nutritional Facts

Here’s the approximate nutritional information for one serving (1 slice) of crème brûlée French toast. Keep in mind that this is an indulgent breakfast treat, and these numbers will vary based on the specific brands and measurements you use.

Per Serving (1 slice):

Calories: 385
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 165mg
Sodium: 285mg
Total Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 24g
Protein: 10g
Vitamin D: 8% DV
Calcium: 10% DV
Iron: 12% DV
Potassium: 4% DV

This analysis doesn’t include optional toppings like maple syrup, berries, or whipped cream, which would add additional calories and nutrients. For a lighter version, you could reduce the heavy cream and use more milk, though this will affect the rich, custardy texture that makes this dish special.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

While crème brûlée French toast is definitely a treat rather than everyday health food, some of its ingredients do offer nutritional benefits that are worth noting. I like to think of this as an “everything in moderation” dish that can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally.

Here’s what some of the key ingredients bring to the table:

Eggs – Provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids that help build and repair body tissues; they’re also rich in choline, which supports brain health, and contain vitamins A, D, E, and B12
Heavy Cream and Milk – Supply calcium for strong bones and teeth, along with vitamin D that aids calcium absorption and supports immune function; they also provide phosphorus and riboflavin
Cinnamon – Contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds; it may help regulate blood sugar levels and has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in some studies
Vanilla Extract – Contains small amounts of antioxidants and has been associated with mood-lifting properties; the aroma alone can have calming effects
Brioche Bread – While it’s an enriched bread, it still provides carbohydrates for energy and contains some B vitamins and iron (though it’s not as nutrient-dense as whole grain options)
Berries (if served) – Packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which may protect against chronic diseases; they’re also high in fiber and vitamin C

Another favorite: Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe

FAQs About Crème Brûlée French Toast

1. Can I make crème brûlée French toast without a kitchen torch?

Yes, you can use your oven’s broiler as an alternative, though the results won’t be quite as controlled or evenly caramelized. Place the cooked French toast on a baking sheet, sprinkle with sugar, and broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning. The challenge with this method is that it heats the entire slice, not just the top, which can dry out the French toast.

2. What’s the best type of bread for this recipe?

Brioche is my top choice because of its buttery richness and tender crumb that soaks up custard beautifully without falling apart. Challah is an excellent second option with a similar texture. Thick-cut white bread or Texas toast can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as rich. Avoid thin sandwich bread, which becomes too soggy, and very dense bread like sourdough, which doesn’t absorb the custard well enough.

3. Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Absolutely! The custard mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also cook the French toast the night before, store it in the fridge, and reheat it in the oven before adding the caramelized sugar topping just before serving. However, never torch the sugar ahead of time, as it will lose its crispy texture.

4. Why isn’t my sugar caramelizing properly?

There are several possible reasons: you might be holding the torch too far away (try moving it closer to 2-3 inches), the sugar layer might be too thin (make sure you have an even coating), or you might be moving the torch too quickly (slow, steady circular motions work best). Also, make sure you’re using a torch designed for cooking with adequate flame intensity. Regular granulated sugar caramelizes faster than turbinado but doesn’t create as nice a texture.

5. How do I prevent my French toast from being soggy in the middle?

The key is to use thick slices of bread (at least 1 inch or 2.5 cm), don’t over-soak them, and cook over medium heat to ensure the inside cooks through while the outside browns nicely. If your slices are consistently soggy in the middle, try soaking for less time or using day-old bread that’s firmer. You can also finish cooking the slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes after pan-frying to ensure they’re cooked through.

You might also enjoy: Creme Brulee Cheesecake Recipe

Final Thoughts

Making crème brûlée French toast at home is so much easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. That first crack through the caramelized sugar crust never gets old, no matter how many times you make this recipe.

I hope this becomes one of your go-to special occasion breakfast recipes, just as it has for my family. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating restaurant-quality brunch at home and seeing the delighted faces of everyone at the table when you bring out this show-stopping dish.

Give this crème brûlée French toast recipe a try this weekend and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear about your experience, any creative variations you come up with, or how your family reacted to that first caramelized bite.

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