Crème Brûlée

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
• 5 large egg yolks
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
• Pinch of salt
• 2–3 tbsp granulated sugar, for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam. Do not boil.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
4. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for an extra-smooth custard.
6. Divide the custard among 4 ramekins.
7. Place the ramekins in a baking dish and add hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
8. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still jiggle slightly.
9. Remove from the water bath and cool to room temperature.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. Before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each custard.
12. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until deep golden brown and crisp.
13. Let sit for 1–2 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Use room-temperature egg yolks for smoother mixing.
• Straining the custard removes any lumps and creates a silky texture.
• Avoid boiling the cream, as it can affect the custard’s texture.
• Apply a thin layer of sugar for the best caramelized crust.
• Chill the custard thoroughly before torching the sugar.
• If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the ramekins under a hot broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.

Why You’ll Love It

• Rich, creamy, and luxurious texture.
• Elegant dessert with simple ingredients.
• Make-ahead friendly for entertaining.
• Impressive presentation with minimal effort.

Flavor Variations

• Chocolate Crème Brûlée: Add melted dark chocolate to the warm cream.
• Espresso Crème Brûlée: Stir in 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder.
• Citrus Crème Brûlée: Add orange or lemon zest.
• Lavender Crème Brûlée: Infuse the cream with dried culinary lavender.
• Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramelized sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh berries.
• Serve with shortbread cookies or biscotti.
• Pair with coffee, espresso, or dessert wine.
• Enjoy chilled with the sugar topping freshly caramelized.

🍮✨ Crème Brûlée is a timeless dessert that combines a velvety vanilla custard with a perfectly crisp caramelized sugar crust for a truly unforgettable experience.