Description
Indulge in this elegant Crème Brûlée French Toast that combines creamy custard soaked brioche bread with a perfectly caramelized crispy sugar topping. This plant-based twist on a classic favorite delivers rich flavor and texture with simple pantry ingredients, perfect for a special morning treat or celebratory brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup coconut milk (plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
French Toast
- 8 thick slices brioche bread
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for caramelizing)
- Light oil for cooking (such as coconut or vegetable oil)
Optional Garnishes & Variations
- Fresh berries
- Powdered sugar (natural)
- Additional maple syrup (natural) for drizzling
- Toasted chopped nuts
- Cinnamon and nutmeg (for spiced touch)
- Fresh citrus zest (lemon or orange)
- Cocoa powder or melted plant-based chocolate
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard: Whisk together the eggs, coconut milk (plant-based), maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), sea salt, apple cider vinegar, and natural gelling agent until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. Let the custard rest briefly to activate the natural gelling agent.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each brioche slice into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak but not become soggy. Press gently so each slice absorbs the custard evenly for a creamy texture.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Place the soaked slices into the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and set.
- Caramelize the Sugar Topping: Evenly sprinkle sugar over the cooked toast slices. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, shiny golden crust. If you do not have a torch, place slices under a broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve Warm: Serve the French toast immediately to enjoy the contrast of the creamy custard interior and crunchy caramelized sugar topping. Garnish with berries, powdered sugar, or a maple syrup drizzle if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old brioche for better custard absorption without falling apart.
- Cook on medium heat to ensure the toast cooks fully without burning.
- Apply short, controlled bursts when caramelizing sugar to prevent scorching.
- Let custard rest briefly to properly activate the natural gelling agent.
- Adjust maple syrup quantity to customize sweetness according to taste.
- Alternative breads like challah or any thick-cut sturdy bread can be used.
- If no kitchen torch is available, caramelize sugar under a broiler cautiously.
- Make custard ahead and store in the fridge to enhance flavor melding.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispness on the topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Skillet and torching
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: Crème Brûlée French Toast, plant-based French toast, vegan custard French toast, caramelized French toast, brunch recipe