Go Back
Caramelized French Toast-1

Caramelized French Toast

Caramelized French Toast upgrades the classic breakfast by coating golden bread slices in a sweet, crispy sugar crust. This recipe yields a beautifully crunchy exterior with a soft, custardy center, perfect for a special morning.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or challah)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 240 ml whole milk
  • 60 ml heavy cream
  • 50 g granulated sugar
  • 40 g extra granulated sugar for caramelizing
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 40 g unsalted butter divided

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 nonstick skillet or griddle
  • 1 spatula
  • 1 shallow dish

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, 50 g sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  2. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Dip each bread slice in the custard, letting it soak for about 20 seconds per side.
  3. Place the extra 40 g sugar on a plate. When ready to cook, dredge one side of each soaked bread slice lightly in the sugar.
  4. Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter (about 1/2 tablespoon) and let it melt.
  5. Place bread slices sugar-side down onto the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sugar caramelizes and turns golden brown.
  6. Flip the slices and add a bit more butter if needed. Cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until golden and heated through.
  7. Repeat with all slices, adjusting the heat as necessary so the sugar caramelizes without burning.
  8. Serve immediately, plain or with berries, whipped cream, or maple syrup.

Notes

Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the custard without getting soggy.
Watch the sugar as it caramelizes; lower the heat if it browns too quickly.
Feel free to use different bread like Texas toast or sourdough for a twist.