Crème Brûlée French Toast

Let’s be real—breakfast is already the best meal of the day, but when you take something as classic as French toast and give it the luxurious twist of crème brûlée, you’re stepping into next-level brunch territory.

This Crème Brûlée French Toast is not just your average breakfast. It’s rich, custardy, caramelized, and ridiculously indulgent. Imagine thick slices of buttery brioche or challah, soaked in a silky vanilla-infused custard, then cooked until golden brown and finished with a crackly, caramelized sugar topping—just like the classic French dessert.

I first discovered this recipe at a tiny café in Paris, where the chef torched the sugar on top of the toast right at the table. The result? A crispy, golden shell that gave way to the softest, creamiest, most decadent French toast I’d ever had. From that moment, I knew I had to recreate it at home.

And trust me, it’s easier than it looks. If you want to understand why the custard ratio makes all the difference, check out The Science Behind the Best French Toast—it explains how custard absorption, sugar caramelization, and bread selection affect the final result.

So, if you’re ready to level up your breakfast or brunch game, let’s dive into this crème brûlée-inspired masterpiece.

What Makes Crème Brûlée French Toast So Special?

The Best of Both Worlds

Crème brûlée and French toast are already delicious on their own, but when you combine them? Absolute magic.

Here’s what makes this dish stand out:

• Caramelized Sugar Topping → Just like the classic dessert, this French toast gets finished with a layer of caramelized sugar that cracks when you tap it with a spoon.
• Rich Custard-Soaked Bread → The egg and cream mixture creates an ultra-luxurious texture, making every bite soft and creamy inside, yet slightly crisp outside.
• Baked or Pan-Fried Options → You can either bake it overnight for an easy prep or cook it on the stovetop for crispy edges.

If you’ve ever wondered why crème brûlée has that signature crisp topping, it all comes down to caramelization science. Learn more about how to achieve the perfect brûlée crust with this guide on How to Perfectly Caramelize Sugar.

The Best Bread for Crème Brûlée French Toast

Not all bread is created equal when it comes to French toast. If you pick the wrong one, you could end up with a soggy mess or something too dry and dense.

Top Choices for the Best Texture:

• Brioche – Soft, buttery, and ideal for absorbing custard.
• Challah – Slightly denser, with a rich flavor and soft texture.
• French Bread – A chewier option that holds up well to soaking.

Fresh vs. Stale Bread: Which Works Better?

• Stale bread absorbs custard better, giving you that silky interior without becoming mushy.
• If your bread is too fresh, toast it in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to dry it out slightly before soaking.

Pro tip: Aim for slices at least 1-inch thick—this prevents them from falling apart after soaking.

If you love other buttery, rich breads, you might also enjoy Soft Fluffy Buttery Rolls, which can be used for another indulgent French toast variation.

The Perfect Custard for Crème Brûlée French Toast

A great custard is key to getting the luxuriously soft, creamy texture inside the toast. If you get this part right, your French toast will taste just like crème brûlée in every bite.

Ingredients for the Silkiest Custard:

• 4 large eggs + 2 egg yolks → The extra yolks make the custard richer and smoother.
• 1 cup heavy cream + ½ cup whole milk → A perfect balance between richness and lightness.
• ⅓ cup brown sugar + 1 tbsp maple syrup → Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract + a pinch of salt → Essential for that signature crème brûlée flavor.
• Optional: 1 tbsp Grand Marnier or rum → Adds an elegant, slightly boozy twist.

Why This Custard Works So Well

• The higher fat content from heavy cream creates a thick, creamy consistency.
• The egg yolks add richness, preventing the custard from being too thin or watery.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crème Brûlée French Toast

• Slice thick pieces (about 1-inch thick).
• If using fresh bread, toast it for 5-10 minutes at 300°F to dry it out slightly.

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, heavy cream, whole milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt.
2. For extra depth, stir in Grand Marnier or a splash of bourbon.

• Quick soak (10-15 seconds per side) → If you’re pan-frying.
• Longer soak (30 minutes or overnight) → If baking for a more custard-like texture.

Pan-Fried Method (For a Crispier Texture)

1. Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp butter + 1 tsp oil.
2. Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Transfer to a cooling rack so they don’t get soggy.

Baked Method (For an Easy, Overnight Version)

1. Arrange soaked slices in a buttered baking dish.
2. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let flavors deepen.
3. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, until set and golden.

How to Get the Perfect Caramelized Sugar Toppin

Now, this is where the magic happens. If you want authentic crème brûlée flavor, you need that crispy, crackly, caramelized sugar topping. It’s the difference between regular French toast and an ultra-luxurious, dessert-inspired brunch.

The Three Best Methods for Caramelizing Sugar

There are several ways to achieve that signature golden, glassy sugar crust. Some methods are more traditional, while others work in a pinch if you don’t have a kitchen torch.

If you want restaurant-quality crème brûlée French toast, a culinary torch is the way to go.

Steps to Torch the Sugar Topping:

1. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the cooked French toast.
2. Hold the torch 2-3 inches from the surface and move it in small circular motions.
3. The sugar will bubble, melt, and turn golden brown—watch carefully to avoid burning.
4. Let it sit for 30 seconds to harden before serving.

Pro tip: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, they’re surprisingly affordable! You can grab one at most kitchen stores or online.

If you don’t have a torch, you can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. It’s not as precise, but it works well.

Steps for Broiling Sugar:

1. Preheat your broiler on high.
2. Sprinkle an even layer of sugar over the French toast.
3. Place the toast on a baking sheet lined with foil and broil for 1-2 minutes.
4. Keep a very close eye on it—sugar burns fast under the broiler.

If you don’t have a torch or broiler, you can still get a crackly sugar topping by making a quick caramel drizzle.

Steps for Making a Caramel Sugar Drizzle:

1. Heat ¼ cup granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Let it melt without stirring until it turns amber brown.
3. Drizzle the hot caramel directly over the French toast and let it harden.

Note: This method works best for individual slices rather than a full batch.

Delicious Flavor Variations to Try

One of the best things about Crème Brûlée French Toast is how versatile it is. Here are some fun variations to try!

Want to level up the indulgence? Add chocolate to the mix!

How to Make It:

• Mix 2 tbsp cocoa powder into the custard for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Swap half the vanilla extract for chocolate liqueur or espresso.
• Finish with a drizzle of Nutella or melted dark chocolate after caramelizing the sugar.

Adding citrus gives this dish a fresh, bright twist.

How to Make It:

• Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the custard mixture.
• Swap vanilla extract for ½ tsp orange extract or Grand Marnier.
• Serve with candied orange slices or a light dusting of cinnamon.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Even though Crème Brûlée French Toast is fairly easy, there are a few pitfalls that can ruin your dish. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen to you!

The Problem:

If you leave the bread in the custard too long, it’ll turn into a soggy mess that falls apart while cooking.

How to Fix It:

• Quick soak: 10-15 seconds per side for fresh bread.
• Long soak: Up to 30 minutes for thick, stale bread.
• Overnight soak: Only recommended for baking methods, not pan-frying.

The Problem:

If you don’t use enough butter, your toast won’t get that rich golden crust.

How to Fix It:

• Use 1 tbsp butter + 1 tsp oil per batch to prevent burning.
• Add butter gradually while cooking multiple slices.

The Problem:

Sugar goes from golden caramelized to burnt and bitter in a matter of seconds.

How to Fix It:

• If using a torch, move it constantly to avoid scorching one spot.
• If using a broiler, watch it like a hawk—don’t walk away!
• If making caramel drizzle, turn the heat down if sugar browns too fast.

Best Toppings & Serving Ideas for Crème Brûlée French Toast

Now that your Crème Brûlée French Toast is golden, custardy, and caramelized, it’s time to take it to the next level with the perfect toppings. While the crackly sugar crust is already amazing, adding a little something extra can make it even more irresistible.

Classic Toppings

If you like to keep it simple, these classic toppings will enhance the flavor without overpowering it.

• Powdered sugar & maple syrup → A traditional, sweet finish.
• Whipped cream & fresh berries → Light and refreshing, adding a pop of color.
• A light dusting of cinnamon → Brings out the warm, caramelized flavors.

Gourmet Toppings for an Elevated Brunch

Want to impress your brunch guests? Try these decadent additions:

• Slice bananas and sauté them in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and golden.
• Spoon over the French toast for a sticky-sweet topping.

• Drizzle warm Nutella over the toast.
• Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts or almonds for crunch.

• Toast shredded coconut in a dry pan for 2 minutes.
• Add a pineapple reduction syrup for a tropical twist.

For another warm fruit topping, try Cracker Barrel Fried Apples—they pair perfectly with caramelized French toast!

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Crème Brûlée French Toast

How to Store Leftovers

If you have extra slices (which honestly doesn’t happen often in my house!), here’s how to store them properly:

• Let the French toast cool completely before storing—this prevents condensation and sogginess.
• Place slices in a single layer in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Freeze for Later

Want to meal prep or save some for later? Freezing works surprisingly well!

• Flash-freeze the slices: Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
• Once solid, transfer to a ziplock bag or airtight container.
• Label the bag with the date, and store for up to 2 months.

Best Ways to Reheat Without Losing Texture

Reheating French toast the wrong way can make it soggy or rubbery. Here’s how to bring it back to life:

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Place slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Place a slice in the toaster on medium heat.
• Works best for halved pieces to avoid burning.

• Set air fryer to 375°F.
• Place slices in a single layer.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat.
• Add a small pat of butter.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until heated through.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Take Your Breakfast to the Next Level?

By now, you’ve got all the knowledge you need to make the perfect Crème Brûlée French Toast—from choosing the best bread to achieving that iconic caramelized topping. But before you head to the kitchen, let’s make this fun!

👉 Tell Me: What’s Your Favorite Topping?

Are you keeping it classic with maple syrup, or going all out with caramelized bananas and whipped cream? Maybe you’re tempted to try Nutella with a hint of sea salt?

Drop your favorite combo in the comments! You might just inspire someone to try something new.

🧐 Challenge: Give It Your Own Signature Twist!

A recipe is just the starting point—how will you make this your own?

Here are some creative ideas:

• Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty depth.
• Use chocolate croissants instead of brioche for a chocolate-infused version.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard for a sweet & spicy kick.

Have an idea? Share your creative spin below! I’d love to hear how you’re making this recipe your own.

📷 Show Off Your Creation!

If you try this Crème Brûlée French Toast, snap a photo and tag #QuickAndSavoryBrunch on Instagram. Let’s see those golden, caramelized masterpieces!

More Breakfast Inspiration to Try

If you loved this recipe, here are some other delicious breakfast ideas to try next:

• Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole – The perfect make-ahead breakfast for a crowd.
• Cinnamon Crescent Rolls – Buttery, flaky, and packed with cinnamon goodness.
• Matcha Overnight Oats – A healthy, energizing breakfast alternative.

Now It’s Your Turn—Let’s Get Cooking!

Are you ready to make the best Crème Brûlée French Toast of your life? Grab those ingredients, fire up that pan, and make something worthy of a five-star brunch!

And when you do, don’t forget to drop a comment and let me know how it turned out.

Happy cooking, and may your breakfasts always be golden, custardy, and caramelized to perfection!

Print