### Crème Brûlée French Toast Recipe

**Description:**
Indulge in the rich and creamy delight of Crème Brûlée French Toast, a decadent breakfast treat that combines the classic flavors of crème brûlée with the comforting texture of French toast. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend brunch, this dish features brioche bread soaked in a luscious custard and topped with a caramelized sugar crust.

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**Ingredients:**
– 1 loaf of brioche bread (about 1 pound), sliced into 1-inch thick slices
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
– Fresh berries (for serving, optional)
– Maple syrup (for serving, optional)

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**Instructions:**

**Preparing the Batter:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Whisk them until well beaten and frothy.
2. Add in the 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Next, add the 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Continue whisking until all the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is uniform.
4. Set the batter aside while preparing the bread.

**Preparing the Bread:**
1. Slice the brioche bread into 1-inch thick slices (about 8-10 slices).
2. In a large baking dish, arrange the slices of brioche in a single layer. If necessary, use two dishes.
3. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the slices, ensuring each piece is well coated. Gently press down on the bread to help it soak up the custard.
4. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight.

**Cooking Process:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. If there’s excess custard at the bottom, gently pour it over the bread slices.
3. Sprinkle the 1/2 cup of brown sugar evenly over the top of the soaked bread.
4. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
5. For an extra crispy top, broil the French toast for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

**Assembling and Serving:**
1. Let the French toast cool for a few minutes after baking.
2. Carefully cut and lift the slices out of the baking dish using a spatula. Serve individually or on a large platter.
3. Garnish with fresh berries for added color and flavor, if desired.
4. Drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness.

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**Notes:**
– For best results, allow the bread to soak in the custard overnight.
– Customize toppings with your favorite fruits or nuts.

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 35 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 50 minutes (including soaking time)
**Yield:** 8-10 servings

Enjoy your delicious Crème Brûlée French Toast!