Experience the ultimate brunch indulgence with Crème Brûlée French Toast — it will wow your friends and family, and you get to do all the work ahead of time!
Indulge in a delightful twist on a breakfast classic with our crème brûlée French toast. This decadent recipe combines rich butter, brown sugar, and French bread, creating a dish that’s sure to delight your family and friends. Get ready to transform your morning meal from meh to fabulous with this easy casserole!
If I’m throwing a leisurely weekend brunch, I don’t have to think twice about what to make with this recipe in my rotation. This version of French toast gets its name from its crispy top and soft, silky interior, a contrast that’s similar to the famous crème brûlée dessert of custard with a crackling caramelized sugar topping. It’s a contrast that’s impossible to resist, and what I love most about this dish is how it effortlessly elevates a simple breakfast into something unique and special. It’s always a hit and you even assemble the casserole the day ahead. I can’t wait for you all to try it!
Is Crème Brûlée French Toast Healthy?
This crème brûlée French toast recipe is a treat and not a candidate for the healthiest food award. With butter, brown sugar, and half-and-half as star ingredients it’s a dish to be enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat, sugar and calorie count. You can make it a bit healthier by using whole-grain French bread, reducing the amount of sugar, or even adding more fresh berries for a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. But don’t let this scare you away from trying the recipe out — it’s a delightful meal that’s great for celebrating special moments.
What Other Flavoring Ingredients Can I Use?
While orange zest and orange extract bring a lovely citrusy flavor to crème brûlée French toast, they’re not your only options. You’re the head of your kitchen, so if you don’t have these on hand, or just don’t think you’ll like the taste, you can try different substitutions. Lemon zest would produce a similar, refreshing profile as orange zest. And almond extract would be great for a nutty aroma in place of orange extract. Vanilla extract is also a classic for French toast and will let the rich, creamy flavors of this dish shine through. Feel free to adjust the flavorings according to your preferences.
How to make ahead and store
If you happen to have leftovers (highly unlikely) you can store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or oven. Just be sure to do so within 2 days for best flavor and texture; keep in mind that the crunchy crust may become soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Why not create a brunch spread alongside your crème brûlée French toast? Fresh Fruit Salad would add a light and refreshing touch, while a savory Ham and Spinach Quiche or Vegetable Frittata can add extra protein. For something salty, you can’t go wrong with a side of Bacon In the Oven, Air-Fryer Breakfast Sausage, or Air-Fryer Turkey Bacon! One or more of these options will leave you and your guests fully satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 6 slices French bread 1-inch thick
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pure orange extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Whipped cream and fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add the butter to melt it. Stir in brown sugar and maple syrup to dissolve them.
- Pour the sugar mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange bread slices in a single layer over the mixture.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, and salt. Pour over the bread slices and ensure they are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate the dish for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
- Remove the dish from the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until lightly golden brown, puffy, and set in the center.
- Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and fresh berries or fruit.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment