If you are searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and a decadent treat all at once, this Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Featuring luscious layers of custardy brioche soaked in a vanilla-scented egg mixture, baked over a buttery caramel base, and topped with a rich salted caramel drizzle, every bite bursts with luxurious flavor. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and a hint of saltiness that turns a simple morning meal into an unforgettable indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that makes this dish shine. From the buttery richness of the brioche to the warm notes of cinnamon and vanilla, every element comes together seamlessly.
- Brioche or challah bread: A soft, rich loaf that absorbs custard beautifully, making each slice tender and flavorful.
- Large eggs: The base for the custard, providing structure and creaminess.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and helps keep the custard smooth and velvety.
- Heavy cream: Enhances richness both in the custard and caramel sauce, elevating the dish to pure decadence.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard and forms the base for the caramel topping.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a warm, inviting aroma.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
- Salt: A pinch balances flavors and highlights the sweetness in every component.
- Unsalted butter: Essential for the caramel base and topping, providing smooth richness without extra saltiness.
- Brown sugar: Used in the caramel base for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness and beautiful color.
- Sea salt: Sprinkled in caramel components to create that perfect sweet-salty contrast.
- Water: Helps the granulated sugar dissolve evenly in the caramel topping preparation.
How to Make Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base
Begin by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish, then melt butter with brown sugar and sea salt over medium heat in a small saucepan. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and glossy, then pour it evenly into the baking dish. This luscious caramel base will create a golden, sticky layer that beautifully contrasts with the soft custardy bread on top.
Step 2: Arrange the Bread and Custard
Layer your brioche or challah slices on top of the caramel, slightly overlapping to create a cozy, cushioned bed. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Pour this velvety custard mixture over the bread, pushing gently so every slice absorbs the delicious custard.
Step 3: Refrigerate to Soak
Cover the baking dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. This soaking time allows the bread to soak up all those wonderful custard flavors, ensuring a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture once baked. Trust me, the wait is so worth it!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Let the dish come to room temperature while the oven heats, then bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed and golden brown – like a dreamy custard cake. Let it rest for 10 minutes to set before the final touch.
Step 5: Make the Salted Caramel Topping
While the French toast bakes, prepare the salted caramel drizzle. Combine granulated sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook without stirring until the sugar melts and turns deep amber in color. Carefully whisk in cream, butter, and sea salt, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. This topping is the perfect crowning glory for your dish.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Just before serving, generously drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce over the French toast. For an extra touch, broil it for 2–3 minutes to get a slightly crisp, brûléed top. It transforms this dish from amazing to absolutely unforgettable.
How to Serve Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation pop, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a light, sweet contrast that balances the rich caramel. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries provide a burst of tart freshness that complements the custard and caramel beautifully.
Side Dishes
If you want to round out your brunch, pair this French toast with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory counterpoint. A side of fresh fruit salad or citrus segments refreshes the palate and adds vibrant color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a wow-worthy brunch, serve individual slices on pretty plates with caramel drizzled artfully. Layer smaller squares on a dessert stand topped with caramel sauce and berries for a stunning buffet display. You can even transform leftovers into decadent bread pudding or French toast sticks with caramel dipping sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and retain most of their creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices by wrapping them in foil and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Rewarm slices gently in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy. For a crispy touch, broil for 1-2 minutes after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are ideal for their richness and texture, you can try other sturdy breads like French bread or sourdough, but the texture might be a bit different.
Do I have to refrigerate overnight?
While refrigeration overnight provides the best custard soak and texture, a minimum of 4 hours can work if you’re short on time. Just keep in mind the bread won’t be quite as custardy.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the dairy, and use vegan butter to make the caramel. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will vary slightly but still taste delicious.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free bread loaf similar in shape and density to brioche, and check all ingredients for gluten cross-contamination to keep it safe.
How do I get that signature burnt sugar top like traditional crème brûlée?
Broiling the French toast for the last few minutes, or using a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize some extra sugar on top before serving, will give you that classic crisp brûlée finish.
Final Thoughts
This Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel Recipe is a divine way to elevate any morning or brunch occasion. The blend of creamy custard, buttery caramel, and that irresistible salted drizzle makes it feel like a special celebration anytime you serve it. I can’t wait for you to make it and experience how it turns breakfast into a sweet, comforting memory.
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Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus overnight chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Creme Brûlée French Toast with Salted Caramel, a rich and creamy breakfast bake featuring layers of brioche soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, baked over a buttery salted caramel base, and topped with luscious homemade salted caramel sauce. Perfect for holiday brunches or special mornings, this comforting dish combines the best flavors of classic French toast and crème brûlée.
Ingredients
Bread and Custard
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch slices
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Caramel Base
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Salted Caramel Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel Base: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup unsalted butter with 3/4 cup brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, stirring until smooth and combined. Pour this caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and spread it out.
- Layer Bread and Custard: Arrange the sliced brioche or challah bread on top of the caramel base, slightly overlapping the slices. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread slices, pressing lightly so the bread soaks up the custard. Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours for best results.
- Bake the French Toast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the refrigerator while the oven heats. Bake the French toast uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until it is golden brown, puffed, and set in the center. Once baked, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Make Salted Caramel Topping: While the French toast bakes, prepare the salted caramel sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the heavy cream, then add the unsalted butter and sea salt. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Serve: Drizzle the warm salted caramel topping generously over the baked French toast just before serving to add a rich, sweet finish.
Notes
- For a crunchier texture, broil the French toast for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- Serve with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elevated presentation.
- Using brioche or challah bread helps achieve a rich and tender custard soak.
