Crème Brûlée French Toast

Why Make This Recipe

Crème Brûlée French Toast is a delicious twist on the classic breakfast favorite. It combines the rich flavors of crème brûlée with the comforting taste of French toast. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend brunch, this dish promises to impress with its creamy texture and crisp, caramelized top. It’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making it a go-to recipe for any breakfast lover.

How to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of French bread
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
• Butter (for greasing)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Slice the French bread into thick slices and arrange them in the greased baking dish.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, ensuring they are all soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
5. In the morning, remove the dish from the refrigerator; sprinkle brown sugar on top of the bread.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and set.
7. Allow to cool slightly before serving, then use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar on top to create a crispy crust. Serve warm.

How to Serve Crème Brûlée French Toast

Serve this delightful dish warm, straight from the oven. You can add fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries on the side for a bright touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup also make tasty additions. Guests will love the contrast between the creamy interior and the crunchy sugar topping.

How to Store Crème Brûlée French Toast

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The best way to enjoy them later is by reheating them in the oven or on a skillet. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.

Tips to Make Crème Brûlée French Toast

• For a richer flavor, use eggnog instead of milk in the egg mixture during holiday seasons.
• Ensure the bread is stale or day-old for better absorption of the egg mixture.
• If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sugar. Just watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Variation

You can add a hint of flavor by mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg. For a fruitier version, add sliced bananas or blueberries to the bread before pouring the egg mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare Crème Brûlée French Toast in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just add the brown sugar topping before baking.

2. Is it necessary to soak the bread overnight?
Soaking overnight is highly recommended to allow the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture, resulting in a creamier texture.

3. What can I use instead of a kitchen torch?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can use your oven’s broiler. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the sugar.

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