French toast brulee is a delicious and decadent breakfast or brunch dish that I just can’t get enough of. I discovered this recipe a few years ago, and it has since become a staple in our household. The combination of crispy, caramelized sugar on top of creamy custard and sweet bread is absolute perfection.
My kids love it, my husband loves it, and I love making it because it’s so easy to prepare and always impresses our guests. As a busy mom, I appreciate recipes that are quick to make and can be easily adapted for large groups. This recipe fits the bill perfectly – just slice some bread, cook it in a skillet, and top it with a rich, creamy custard made from eggs, sugar, and milk.
It’s a game-changer for any occasion, whether it’s a special Sunday morning or a regular week-day breakfast. But what really sets this recipe apart is the health benefits. Using whole grain bread and reducing the amount of sugar in the custard makes this dish feel relatively guilt-free.
Plus, the eggs provide protein to keep you full until lunchtime. And let’s not forget the calcium from the milk and eggs – perfect for building strong bones in kids (and adults!) I’ve made this recipe countless times for my family, but I’ve also served it at church gatherings and potlucks with rave reviews.
It’s truly a crowd-pleaser.
French Toast Brulee
4.7 from 643 votes
A decadent twist on classic French toast, this recipe features thick slices of bread soaked in a rich custard, pan-fried until golden, and then topped with a caramelized sugar crust. The contrast between the soft, custardy interior and the crackling, brûléed top creates an unforgettable breakfast or brunch dish.
8 thick slices brioche or challah bread, each about 1 inch thick
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying
For the Brulee Topping
1/2 cup granulated sugar, for caramelizing
👨🍳Directions
1In a large shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is completely smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
2This custard base should be pale yellow and slightly frothy.
3Place the bread slices in the custard, turning them once to ensure both sides are fully saturated.
4Let the bread soak for about 30 seconds per side, or until the slices are soft but not falling apart; the bread should feel heavy and saturated when lifted.
5Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6Once the butter is foaming, add 2 to 3 soaked bread slices to the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
7Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the bottom is deep golden brown and the edges look set, then flip carefully with a spatula and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes.
8Transfer the cooked French toast to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
9Repeat the process with the remaining butter and bread slices.
10Allow the French toast to cool for 5 minutes; it should be firm to the touch and the surface should be dry.
11Evenly sprinkle about 1 to 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar over the top of each French toast slice, covering the surface completely.
12Using a kitchen torch held 2 to 3 inches away, move the flame in a circular motion over the sugar until it melts and caramelizes to a deep amber color, about 1 to 2 minutes per slice.
13If using a broiler, place the baking sheet 4 inches from the heat source and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching constantly to prevent burning, until the sugar bubbles and turns golden brown.
14Let the brûléed French toast rest for 1 minute to allow the sugar crust to harden into a brittle shell.
15Serve immediately while the top is still crisp and the interior is warm and custardy.
For best results, use day-old bread that is slightly stale to absorb the custard without becoming mushy. A kitchen torch gives the most control for an even caramelized crust, but a broiler works well as an alternative. Serve with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for contrast.
Watch Video Of How French Toast Brulee Works
This French toast brulee recipe is one that I always recommend to friends and family looking for a delicious breakfast or brunch option. Not only is it easy to make and adaptable for large groups, but it’s also relatively healthy compared to other sweet breakfast treats.
For storage ideas, simply refrigerate any leftovers until you’re ready to reheat them – either in the oven or on the stovetop. For reheating ideas, try topping with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an extra-special treat.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Brulee
Q: What kind of bread should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use any type of bread you like – Challah, brioche, even gluten-free options work well. Just slice it up into thick pieces so it holds its shape.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture up to a day in advance, but be sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
Q: How do I prevent the sugar from burning?
A: Keep an eye on the sugar as it cooks – if you notice it starting to brown too quickly, just reduce the heat or cover the skillet with foil to prevent burning.
Q: Can I substitute heavy cream for regular milk?
A: Absolutely! Heavy cream will give your custard an even richer flavor and texture.
Q: Do I need to use real vanilla extract or will imitation work fine?
A: While imitation vanilla will still give your custard flavor, using real vanilla extract will give it an extra depth of flavor that you won’t want to miss out on.
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