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Decadent Crème Brûlée French Toast

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A rich and indulgent French toast recipe featuring thick slices of brioche or challah soaked in a creamy vanilla custard and topped with a crispy caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for romantic breakfasts or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Thick-cut brioche or challah bread slices (about 1 inch thick), day-old preferred
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, plus extra for caramelizing
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, for frying (preferably European-style)
  • Optional toppings: fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries), maple syrup or honey, powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, soaking for about 20-30 seconds per side until fully saturated but not falling apart. Place soaked slices on a wire rack to drain excess custard briefly. (10 minutes)
  3. Preheat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon unsalted butter. The pan should sizzle but not burn the butter. (3-5 minutes)
  4. Cook the soaked bread slices in the skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly firm. Add more butter as needed for additional batches. Keep cooked slices warm covered with foil. (10-12 minutes)
  5. Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon granulated sugar evenly over each slice. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it melts and forms a crispy, golden crust. (5 minutes)
  6. Serve immediately with optional toppings such as maple syrup or honey, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Notes

Use thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best soaking results. Room temperature eggs and dairy help create a smooth custard. Caramelize sugar topping last minute for a crisp crust. If no kitchen torch is available, use the oven broiler carefully. Leftovers can be stored airtight in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently with refreshed brûlée topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crème Brûlée French Toast, romantic breakfast, caramelized sugar, custard soaked bread, brioche French toast, easy breakfast recipe

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/decadent-cr-e-me-br-u-l-e-e-french-toast-recipe-easy-romantic-breakfast-idea/