Crème Brûlée French Toast (Print-Friendly Format)

Custard-soaked brioche, caramelized sugar topping, and warm spices for an elegant brunch treat.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Custard Base

01 - 4 large eggs
02 - 250 ml whole milk (or almond milk or oat milk as alternatives)
03 - 120 ml heavy cream (or half-and-half)
04 - 100 g granulated sugar (or brown sugar as an option)
05 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
06 - 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or nutmeg)
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Bread Layer

08 - 1 loaf brioche or challah, sliced thickly (12-14 pieces)

→ Brûlée Topping

09 - 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar, for caramelized crust

→ Serving Suggestions

10 - Fresh berries
11 - Powdered sugar
12 - Maple syrup

# How to Make It:

01 - Slice brioche or challah into thick pieces and arrange in a greased baking dish.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
03 - Pour custard evenly over the bread slices, gently pressing to ensure full absorption. Cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes or overnight for superior texture.
04 - Preheat oven to 175°C.
05 - Remove dish from refrigerator and bake for 25-30 minutes until the surface is golden and custard is set. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a crisper top.
06 - Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar atop the baked toast and use a kitchen torch to caramelize, or broil for 1-2 minutes under close supervision until a crisp brûlée forms.
07 - Allow to cool briefly. Garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and maple syrup as desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Overnight soaking enhances flavor and texture.
02 - For a lighter dish, substitute low-fat dairy products and consider honey or a sugar alternative.
03 - Using whole grain or gluten-free bread provides added dietary fiber or gluten-free adaptation.