Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
1. Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the French Toast
1. Soak Bread: Place the slices of brioche or challah in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all slices are well coated. Press down gently to submerge the bread in the custard.
2. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results. This allows the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 3: Bake the French Toast
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Remove the plastic wrap and bake the French toast in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 4: Caramelize the Sugar
1. Cool Slightly: Once baked, allow the French toast to cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Sugar: Evenly sprinkle the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over the top of the French toast.
3. Caramelize: Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it’s melted and bubbly, forming a crispy crust. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve
1. Garnish: Serve the Crème Brûlée French Toast warm, topped with fresh berries or sliced fruit and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
2. Enjoy: Enjoy this decadent breakfast treat!