Burnt Cream French Toast is a rich, custard-style French toast with a crisp caramel top. It uses brioche or challah and a creamy egg mix. This recipe is easy and feels special. For a similar baked style, see a simple creme brulee french toast version to compare textures.
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
You make this recipe when you want a warm, creamy breakfast that looks fancy but is easy to make. The burnt sugar top gives a nice crunch and contrast to the soft inside. If you like baked French toast ideas, try the overnight French toast casserole for a hands-off option.
How to make Burnt Cream French Toast
This recipe soaks bread in a rich custard and bakes it until set. After baking, you caramelize sugar on top for a burnt cream finish. For more bread and fruit ideas, check a blueberry french toast casserole recipe.
Ingredients :
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter (for greasing)
- Granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (for serving, optional)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a baking dish.
- Cut the bread into thick slices and arrange in the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and ensure all pieces are soaked. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- For the caramelization, sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of the baked toast and use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown.
- Serve warm with fresh berries if desired.
How to serve Burnt Cream French Toast
Serve warm. Add fresh berries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup if you like. For a soft roll option, see ideas like Hawaiian roll French toast ideas.
How to store Burnt Cream French Toast
Cool to room temperature first. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a low oven or in a skillet to keep the top crisp. For make-ahead dinners, follow tips from an overnight French toast casserole method.
Tips to make Burnt Cream French Toast
- Use thick slices of brioche or challah so the bread holds the custard.
- Let the bread soak at least 30 minutes or overnight for best texture.
- Use a kitchen torch for quick, even caramelization. If you do not have a torch, broil carefully for a short time.
- Use cold cream and milk straight from the fridge for a richer custard.
- For a fun twist, try flavors from recipes like cinnamon roll French toast roll-ups.
Variation (if any)
- Add a thin layer of jam between slices for fruit flavor.
- Stir a little cinnamon or orange zest into the custard.
- Use different breads like challah, brioche, or thick sandwich bread.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter custard.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this the night before?
A: Yes. Soak the bread in the custard, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning.
Q: What if I do not have a kitchen torch?
A: You can broil the top for a short time. Watch closely so it does not burn.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
A: You can use more milk, but the custard will be less rich. Heavy cream gives a creamier texture.
Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Burnt Cream French Toast makes a lovely weekend breakfast or a special brunch. For more recipe ideas and similar dishes, try the Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe for a classic take, follow the Overnight Creme Brûlée French Toast Bake – Mel’s Kitchen Cafe for an overnight version, read the Crème Brûlée French Toast – Self Proclaimed Foodie post for tips and photos, check the Creme Brulee French Toast – AnotherFoodBlogger for a simple recipe twist, or watch the steps in the Overnight Creme Brulee French Toast (+ Video!) – Carlsbad Cravings guide.
Burnt Cream French Toast
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and butter a baking dish.
- Cut the bread into thick slices and arrange in the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and ensure all pieces are soaked. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set.
- Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of the baked toast and use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown.
- Serve warm with fresh berries, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.