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Crème Brûlée French Toast

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Crème Brûlée French Toast is a decadent, make-ahead breakfast or brunch recipe that combines the rich custard of classic French toast with a caramelized, buttery base inspired by crème brûlée. Perfect for holidays, special mornings, or crowd-pleasing brunches, this indulgent dish is easy to prep ahead and always impresses.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes + chilling
  • Yield: Serves 6–8
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • Thick slices of French bread, challah, or brioche
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons corn syrup or maple syrup
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter with brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth and bubbling. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Arrange thick bread slices over the caramel base in a single, snug layer.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Pour evenly over the bread.
  4. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover and bake for 35–40 minutes until puffed and golden.
  6. Cool slightly before serving. Invert slices so caramel side is on top. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use slightly stale bread for best results—it absorbs custard without turning soggy.
  • For added flavor, mix in orange zest or splash of liqueur.
  • Add thin apple or banana slices, or sprinkle chopped pecans before baking for variation.
  • Can be reheated in oven or microwave—caramel stays gooey and delicious.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/creme-brulee-french-toast/