Breakfast has always been my favorite meal of the day. Growing up in Crete, Sundays were special because my grandmother would make something sweet and comforting to share with the family. One morning, she prepared a custardy, caramelized dessert for breakfast, and it felt so luxurious even though it was simple. That memory inspired me to create this Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake it’s like the elegance of French crème brûlée meets the cozy comfort of baked French toast. The result? A golden, custardy breakfast with a perfectly crisp caramelized top that will wow everyone at the table.
I love making this recipe for weekend brunches or holiday mornings. The best part is that you can prepare it ahead of time, let it soak overnight, and then bake it to perfection in the morning. The aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and caramelized sugar filling your kitchen is pure magic it’s the kind of dish that makes people slow down and savor each bite. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or just treating yourself, this French toast bake is comfort, elegance, and indulgence all in one.
This recipe is perfect for those who want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, custardy, lightly spiced, and topped with a caramelized sugar crust that crackles with every bite. If you’ve ever wanted a breakfast that feels like dessert, this is it.
Ingredients
For the French Toast Bake:
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Caramelized Topping:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- Optional: powdered sugar for serving
- Fresh berries for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. This custard mixture is what makes your French toast bake custardy and rich.
Step 2: Assemble the bake
Place the bread cubes in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing gently so each piece soaks up the mixture. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it soaks, the more tender and flavorful your bake will be.
Step 3: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the French toast bake from the refrigerator while the oven preheats. This helps it bake evenly.
Step 4: Bake the French toast
Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 5: Caramelize the sugar
Sprinkle 1/2 cup granulated sugar evenly over the top of the bake. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crisp crust. If you don’t have a torch, you can broil it in the oven for 2–3 minutes just watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Allow the Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar and topped with fresh berries. The first bite should give you that satisfying crack of caramelized sugar over soft, custardy bread.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent breakfast bake is perfect with:
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries 🍓🫐
- Maple syrup or whipped cream for extra indulgence 🍯
- A cup of hot coffee, latte, or tea ☕
It’s ideal for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any time you want to impress guests without stress.
Tips for Perfect Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake 🍮✨
Time Cook ⏱️:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Soak: 2 hours or overnight
- Bake: 45–50 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 15 minutes (excluding soak time)
Ingredients 🛒:
- Use brioche or challah for a rich, tender texture
- Fresh eggs and high-quality vanilla extract make a difference
Instructions 📋:
- Soak the bread overnight for maximum custard absorption
- Caramelize sugar just before serving for the signature crack
Notes 📝:
- Can be made gluten-free using your favorite gluten-free bread
- Add a sprinkle of orange zest or a splash of rum to the custard for a festive twist
Nutrition 🍽️ (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 50g
- Fat: 15g
Conclusion
The Crème Brûlée French Toast Bake is a luxurious breakfast that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence to any morning. Every bite is creamy, sweet, and slightly crisp, combining the elegance of French crème brûlée with the cozy familiarity of baked French toast. I love serving this to friends and family because it’s more than just a meal it’s a moment, a shared memory, and a celebration of flavor. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is approachable, fun, and absolutely delicious. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!