Description
An elevated, indulgent morning meal combining classic French toast with the sophisticated caramelized sugar crust of creme brulee. Perfect for a special brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (12–14 slices)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for custard)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for brulee topping)
- Fresh berries, for garnish
- Powdered sugar, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for custard), 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Slice brioche or challah bread into 1-inch thick pieces. Day-old bread is recommended.
- Pour the chilled custard into a large dish. Dip each bread slice into the custard, soaking for 30-60 seconds on each side. Place soaked slices on a wire rack to drain.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook 2-3 soaked bread slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking sheet and keep warm in a low oven.
- Arrange cooked French toast on a heatproof surface. Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of sugar over each slice. Use a culinary torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a glassy crust.
- Once the crust hardens, arrange 1-2 slices on each plate. Dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries. Serve immediately with optional maple syrup.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best absorption of custard.
- Adjust the sugar amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Serve immediately for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg