The Best Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe: Decadent, Easy, and Oh-So-Satisfying

Crème Brûlée French Toast: A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For

Looking for a show-stopping breakfast or brunch idea? This Crème Brûlée French Toast recipe combines the creamy decadence of crème brûlée with the comforting flavor of French toast. Easy, fun, and made with fresh ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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Updated June 2025: This recipe has been retested and rewritten by Chef Cory, and new real kitchen photos are on their way as part of our ongoing content refresh.

This Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe Is the Ultimate Brunch Delight

Imagine the sweetness of crème brûlée wrapped up in thick slices of bread — that’s exactly what this French toast delivers.

Crispy caramelized sugar on top, a soft custardy center, and a whisper of vanilla adds just the right decadent touch.

I make this when I want to treat the family to something special without mastering a torch.

A quick torching, a sprinkle of fresh berries, and you’ve got a Sunday morning masterpiece worthy of any brunch table.

Fun Serving Ideas

• For The Holidays: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the custard for a festive twist.
• For Brunch Parties: Set up a topping bar with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and flavored syrups.
• For a Romantic Breakfast: Pair with mimosas or freshly brewed espresso.

A Quick Personal Story

One rainy Sunday morning, I was rummaging through the fridge for breakfast inspiration. Pancakes? Nah, too basic.

Eggs? Already did that yesterday. Then I saw it: a slightly stale loaf of brioche sitting on the counter, calling out for redemption.

With a few eggs, cream, and a pinch of creativity, this recipe was born. The best part?

Watching my kids discover the joy of tapping through that caramelized sugar crust like little archaeologists uncovering treasure.

My youngest, with all the wisdom of a 6-year-old, declared, “This is the fanciest toast I’ve ever had.” Mission accomplished.

Why It’s Surprisingly Healthy

Okay, “healthy” might be a stretch, but hear me out.

This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients—no weird preservatives or artificial junk here.

Eggs? Packed with protein. Brioche? Carb-fueled happiness. Heavy cream? Well, let’s call that soul food.

Plus, making this at home means you control the sugar levels, the quality of the ingredients, and the portion sizes. It’s indulgent, yes, but in the best way possible.

What Makes This Recipe Better Than The Rest?

There are plenty of crème brûlée French toast recipes out there, but here’s why this one stands out:

1. The Perfect Balance of Custard and Crunch

Many recipes focus too much on the custard, making the toast soggy, or on the caramelization, leaving it too hard to enjoy.

This recipe ensures a perfectly custardy interior with just the right amount of golden, crackly sugar crust.

The secret lies in soaking the brioche properly and evenly torching the sugar topping.

2. Brioche, the Star Ingredient

This recipe uses day-old brioche bread, which is naturally buttery and slightly sweet.

It absorbs the custard beautifully without falling apart.

No plain sandwich bread here—this is about indulgence with a purpose.

3. A Dash of Cinnamon and Vanilla

While the traditional crème brûlée relies on vanilla alone, this recipe includes a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle warmth that makes each bite feel comforting yet elevated.

4. Flexible for All Levels of Fancy

• Want to prep ahead? Soak the bread overnight, so all you have to do in the morning is cook and brûlée.
• Hosting brunch? Add fresh berries, maple syrup, and powdered sugar for a full-on breakfast spread.
• Want it even easier? Skip the torch and use your broiler—it’s almost foolproof!

5. Caramelized Sugar Done Right

Let’s be honest—getting that brûlée crust is what makes this recipe.

Instead of sprinkling sugar haphazardly, this recipe calls for a sugar mixture of granulated and light brown sugar, ensuring a smooth, even caramelization.

6. Healthier Than You Think

Sure, it’s an indulgent recipe, but it uses fresh, wholesome ingredients with no artificial preservatives or overly processed items.

Plus, you’re eating a good balance of protein, carbs, and even fruit if you add berries on top.

This recipe doesn’t just give you French toast—it gives you an experience.

It’s made to impress while still being approachable, ensuring you’ll want to make it for breakfast, brunch, or just because life deserves a little sweetness.

Equipment and Tools You Need for Crème Brûlée French Toast

Before diving into this recipe, make sure your kitchen is prepped with the right tools.

Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Equipment

1. Large Mixing Bowl
   • For whisking together the custard ingredients (eggs, cream, sugar, etc.).
2. Whisk
   • To ensure the custard is smooth and well-mixed. A hand whisk works perfectly.
3. Shallow Baking Dish
   • For soaking the brioche slices in the custard evenly. A casserole dish or lasagna pan works great.
4. Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle
   • To cook the French toast slices to golden perfection. A large surface helps cook multiple slices at once.
5. Spatula
   • For flipping the French toast gently without tearing the custard-soaked bread.
6. Kitchen Torch
   • To caramelize the sugar topping for that signature crème brûlée crust. This tool makes the recipe extra special.

Optional but Handy Tools

7. Baking Sheet
   • If you need to keep batches of French toast warm in the oven while cooking the rest.
8. Broiler (if no torch)
   • If you don’t have a torch, your broiler can caramelize the sugar. Just watch closely to avoid burning.
9. Measuring Cups and Spoons
   • For precise measurements of ingredients, ensuring the perfect custard balance.
10. Fine Mesh Strainer (optional)

• If you want an ultra-smooth custard, you can strain the mixture before soaking the bread.

Serving Tools

11. Serving Plates

• Choose a plate that can showcase the golden, caramelized beauty of the toast.

12. Small Bowls for Toppings

• Use these for berries, powdered sugar, or syrup to serve alongside.

13. Forks and Knives

• Because you’ll want to dig in immediately, and presentation is everything!

Having these tools at the ready will ensure your Crème Brûlée French Toast journey is as smooth as the custard itself.

Happy cooking!

The Recipe: Crème Brûlée French Toast

This decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast is buttery, custardy, and kissed with a caramelized sugar topping that makes it irresistible.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion, it’s sure to be the best you’ve ever tasted!

Get ready to wow your taste buds and everyone at your table! This Crème Brûlée French Toast is a show-stopper that turns breakfast into a celebration.

Imagine buttery brioche soaked in a velvety custard, topped with a caramelized sugar crust that cracks like magic.

It’s easy to make, fun to torch, and so delicious you’ll want it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

Recipe by dealiciousness.net

5.0 from 2 votes

Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy, Medium

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Crème Brûlée French Toast combines the buttery richness of brioche, a creamy vanilla and cinnamon custard, and a golden caramelized sugar crust. This indulgent breakfast masterpiece offers the perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy in every bite!

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

• For the French Toast:

• 1 loaf brioche bread, sliced 1-inch thick (day-old works best)

• 6 large eggs, pasture-raised

• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup light brown sugar

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp salt

• For the Crème Brûlée Topping:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp light brown sugar

• For Serving:

• Fresh berries (raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries)

• Powdered sugar (optional)

• Pure maple syrup (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Custard
  In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
• Soak the Bread
  Arrange the brioche slices in a single layer in a large baking dish.
  
  Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring every slice is thoroughly coated. Let it soak for at least 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra custardy goodness, cover and refrigerate overnight.
• Cook the French Toast
  Preheat your oven to 200°F to keep the French toast warm as you cook in batches.
  
  Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a pat of butter.
  
  Gently place the soaked brioche slices onto the skillet. Cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Place cooked slices on a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven.
• Make the Crème Brûlée Topping
  Once all the French toast is cooked, sprinkle an even layer of granulated and light brown sugar (mixed together) over the top of each slice.
  
  Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and glassy. (If you don’t have a torch, place the slices on a baking sheet and broil on high for 1-2 minutes, watching closely so the sugar doesn’t burn.)
• Serve And Enjoy
  Plate the French toast with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
  
  Serve immediately and enjoy the heavenly crack of caramelized sugar with every bite!
• If you tried this recipe and loved it, do me a quick favor—give it a 5-star rating and leave a comment below! It really helps more people find the recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

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Pro Tips:

• Day-old bread holds up better and absorbs the custard without falling apart.
• If making for a crowd, you can prep the custard-soaked bread the night before and cook it fresh in the morning.

This Crème Brûlée French Toast is a showstopper that combines the best of two worlds—crunchy caramel topping and velvety custard. Bon appétit!

Breakdown per serving (approximation):

• Brioche Bread (2 slices): ~220 calories
• Custard (eggs, cream, milk, sugars, vanilla, etc.): ~180 calories
• Crème Brûlée Topping: ~80 calories
• Optional toppings (berries, powdered sugar, syrup): ~20-40 calories

A Toast to Crème Brûlée French Toast

This recipe isn’t just food—it’s an experience.

It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary morning into something unforgettable.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, Crème Brûlée French Toast is sure to impress.

So grab your torch, channel your inner chef, and get ready to wow yourself and everyone at your table.

And hey—don’t forget to snap a photo before digging in. Tag me with #dealiciousness so I can celebrate your breakfast masterpiece!

Bon appétit! 🥂🍞

FAQ And Additional Information

What Can I Substitute In This Recipe?

1. Bread

• Substitute for Brioche: Use challah, Texas toast, or even croissants for a similar rich, soft texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap with gluten-free sandwich bread or gluten-free brioche.

2. Dairy

• Heavy Cream and Milk: Use coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Coconut cream is a great substitute for heavy cream.
• Butter: Replace with plant-based butter or margarine for a non-dairy option.

3. Sugar

• Granulated and Brown Sugar: Swap with coconut sugar, maple sugar, or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-calorie option.

4. Eggs

• Egg-Free Option: Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).

5. Cinnamon and Vanilla

• Cinnamon: Use nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice for a different flavor twist.
• Vanilla Extract: Swap with almond extract or maple extract for unique flavor notes.

6. Topping

• Caramelized Sugar: If you don’t have a torch, broil the sugar in the oven or skip it and top with powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Add-ons: Replace berries with banana slices, peaches, or toasted nuts for variety.

What Can I Serve This French Toast Recipe With?

1. Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a refreshing tartness.
• Citrus Slices: Orange or grapefruit segments balance the sweetness.
• Sautéed Apples or Pears: Cook with a little butter and cinnamon for a warm, cozy addition.

2. Whipped Cream

• Classic vanilla whipped cream or a lightly sweetened dollop adds a creamy touch.
• For a twist, try maple or cinnamon whipped cream.

3. Syrups and Sauces

• Pure Maple Syrup: A drizzle of liquid gold enhances the caramelized sugar crust.
• Berry Compote: Warm berries cooked with a touch of sugar and lemon make a fruity topping.
• Salted Caramel Sauce: A luxurious option to complement the brûlée flavors.

4. Savory Sides

• Crispy Bacon: The saltiness cuts through the sweetness perfectly.
• Breakfast Sausage: Adds a hearty, savory element to the meal.
• Soft-Scrambled Eggs: Light and fluffy eggs balance the richness.

5. Drinks

• Hot Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness pairs beautifully with the sweet toast.
• Fresh Orange Juice or Mimosa: A bright, zesty drink to cleanse the palate.
• Latte or Cappuccino: For an extra creamy indulgence.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can soak the brioche slices in the custard overnight and cook them fresh in the morning.

This saves time and enhances the custardy texture.

What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No torch? No problem! Use your oven’s broiler.

Sprinkle sugar on the toast and place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.