Creating the Crème Brûlée French Toast is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

1. Prepare the Bread: Arrange the slices of challah or brioche in a baking dish, overlapping them slightly if necessary.

2. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste (if using), cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

3. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread slices. Ensure each piece is well coated. For the best texture, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

5. Bake the French Toast: Remove the bread from the fridge. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

6. Caramelize the Top: Once out of the oven, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the surface. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns golden. This creates that signature crunchy layer!