Introduction
Indulge in a slice of heaven with this delightful Crème Brûlée French Toast! Combining the rich, creamy flavors of classic crème brûlée with the comforting warmth of French toast, this dish is perfect for a special breakfast or brunch gathering. Picture golden slices of challah or brioche, soaked in a luscious custard mixture, then topped with a crispy layer of caramelized brown sugar. Each bite is a heavenly experience that will have your taste buds singing!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm kitchen is essential for the perfect French toast!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until everything is just beautifully combined.
- Slice the challah or brioche loaf into thick, generous pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Make sure to pack them in snugly!
- Pour the creamy egg mixture evenly over the slices, ensuring that every piece gets a good soak. Cover the dish with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best soak.
- When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This step helps it cook more evenly!
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and butter until it reaches a crumbly texture. This will create that signature brûlée topping!
- Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture generously over the bread slices. Get ready for that caramelized goodness!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and the custard underneath is set. Your kitchen will smell utterly divine!
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before diving in. Serve warm, and enjoy every bite!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding fresh berries or sliced bananas on top before serving. They add a lovely contrast and a burst of freshness to every bite. Additionally, you can drizzle some warm maple syrup for that perfect touch of sweetness!
Cooking Techniques
This delightful dish relies on the gentle soaking of the bread to create a soft, custardy interior while achieving a crispy, caramelized top. Allowing the bread to soak for an extended period helps infuse it with flavor and moisture. Baking at the right temperature will ensure that the custard sets without overcooking.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! Preparing it the night before and letting it soak overnight in the fridge enhances the flavors and saves time in the morning.
What can I use if I don’t have brioche? Challah is a perfect substitute, but any rich, egg-based bread will work wonderfully. Some people even enjoy using croissants for a decadent twist!
How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This Crème Brûlée French Toast is a showstopper that transforms your breakfast table into something extraordinary. Whether it’s a holiday, a special occasion, or simply a weekend treat, this recipe will surely leave your family and friends in awe. So gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of cooking, and prepare to indulge in a new favorite. Happy cooking!