Crème Brûlée French Toast is a luxurious breakfast or brunch dish that captures the creamy, caramelized flavor of the iconic dessert in the form of a warm, custardy baked toast. With its rich vanilla-scented custard, buttery caramel base, and crisp edges, this recipe turns simple ingredients into an indulgent experience.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, a weekend breakfast, or preparing something extra special for your loved ones, this decadent dish delivers sophistication with every bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Elegant Flavor Inspired by classic crème brûlée, this recipe combines velvety custard with a crisp caramel topping.
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Perfect for Entertaining This baked dish is ideal for brunches, special breakfasts, and holidays.
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Make-Ahead Convenience Assemble it the night before, pop it in the oven the next morning, and enjoy.
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Texture and Contrast Creamy inside, caramelized outside—it’s the best of both worlds.
Ingredients List
For the Caramel Base
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1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
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½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons light corn syrup (optional but helps prevent crystallization)
For the Custard Soak
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1 loaf of French bread, brioche, or challah, sliced into 1-inch thick slices (about 12 slices)
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6 large eggs
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1 ½ cups half-and-half or whole milk
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½ cup heavy cream
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon salt
Optional Garnish
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Powdered sugar
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Fresh berries
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Maple syrup
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Caramel drizzle
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Chill Time: 8 hours or overnight
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Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
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Total Time: About 9 hours
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Servings: 6–8
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creme Brulee French Toast
Step 1: Make the Caramel Base
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the brown sugar and corn syrup (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and bubbling—about 2–3 minutes. Pour the caramel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading evenly over the bottom.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread
Place the slices of bread over the caramel, slightly overlapping if necessary. Use a soft bread like brioche or challah for the best custardy texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices. Press the bread gently into the mixture to help it absorb. Cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Bake
Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Invert slices onto plates to show the caramel layer, or serve straight from the dish with toppings.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Bread
Brioche and challah are ideal—they’re rich and sturdy. If using French bread, ensure it’s slightly stale so it soaks up the custard better.
Don’t Rush the Soak
The longer the bread sits in the custard, the more luxurious and flavorful your final dish will be.
Let It Cool Before Serving
Allowing the casserole to rest after baking helps the custard set and prevents a soggy texture.
Variations to Try
Citrus Twist
Add a teaspoon of orange zest or lemon zest to the custard for a bright, fresh flavor.
Boozy Brûlée
Add 1 tablespoon of Grand Marnier, bourbon, or rum to the custard for a grown-up twist.
Nutty Delight
Top with chopped pecans or sliced almonds before baking for added crunch.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead Instructions
This dish is perfect for overnight prep. Simply assemble the night before and bake in the morning.
Leftover Storage
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in the microwave for individual portions or cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, fully assemble the casserole without baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Alternatively, bake first, then cool and freeze individual portions. Reheat as needed.
Toppings and Serving Ideas
Classic Toppings
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A dusting of powdered sugar
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Maple syrup or honey
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Whipped cream
Fancy Touches
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Caramel sauce drizzle
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Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries
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A dollop of crème fraîche or mascarpone
Pairing Suggestions
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Drinks: Serve with hot coffee, espresso, chai tea, or a mimosa for brunch.
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Sides: Bacon, sausage, or fresh fruit salad balance out the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Breakdown (Estimated Per Serving)
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Calories: 380–450
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Protein: 8–10g
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Carbohydrates: 35–40g
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Fat: 22–28g
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Sugar: 18–25g
Note: Nutrition varies based on bread and ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make Crème Brûlée French Toast without corn syrup?
Yes. Corn syrup helps stabilize the caramel, but you can omit it or replace it with honey or maple syrup.
What type of bread works best?
Brioche and challah are ideal for richness and texture, but French bread and even croissants also work.
Can I use low-fat milk?
You can, but full-fat milk or half-and-half gives a creamier custard and better texture.
How do I make it crispier?
Bake uncovered, and if you like extra crisp edges, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—just watch closely!
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use two 9×13-inch pans or a larger roasting pan and increase the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Crème Brûlée French Toast is a show-stopping breakfast or brunch dish that feels as luxurious as it tastes. With its rich custard base, buttery caramel bottom, and the ability to prep ahead, it strikes the perfect balance between convenience and indulgence. Whether you’re planning a holiday gathering, weekend brunch, or a simple morning treat, this recipe delivers in flavor, elegance, and satisfaction.