Crème Brûlée is a classic French dessert that’s elegant, creamy, and deliciously rich with a caramelized sugar crust. This easy-to-follow recipe will help you create the perfect Crème Brûlée that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crème Brûlée:

• 3 cups heavy cream (720mL)
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• 5 egg yolks
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g) plus more for topping
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Custard

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream and vanilla bean (with seeds) to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, remove it from the heat and let it stand for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Strain the Cream: Strain the cream through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding any solids and the vanilla bean pod.
4. Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt until the mixture becomes pale and thick.
5. Combine Mixtures: Slowly whisk the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture. Make sure to add the cream gradually to prevent the eggs from curdling.
6. Strain Again: Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to ensure a smooth consistency, discarding any solids caught by the sieve.

Prepare for Baking

7. Set Up Ramekins: Place 6 (6-ounce) ramekins in a large baking dish. Divide the custard mixture evenly among the ramekins.
8. Water Bath: Very carefully pour boiling water into the baking dish until it comes about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will help cook the custard evenly.

Bake the Custard

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the edges of the custard are set but the center wobbles slightly when gently shaken.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the ramekins cool completely in the water bath. Once cooled, remove the ramekins from the water and chill in the refrigerator for several hours. The custards can also be loosely covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days before topping and serving.

Caramelize the Sugar

11. Add Sugar Topping: When ready to serve, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each chilled custard (about 1 to 1½ teaspoons per ramekin).
12. Caramelize: Using a blow torch, caramelize the sugar until it turns a dark amber color and is bubbling. This will create the signature crisp sugar crust.

Serve

13. Serve Immediately: Serve the Crème Brûlée immediately after caramelizing the sugar for the best texture contrast between the creamy custard and crunchy sugar topping.

Tips and Variations

• Vanilla Bean Substitute: If you don’t have a vanilla bean, you can use 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Add it to the cream after heating.
• Even Sugar Layer: Ensure an even layer of sugar on top of the custard to achieve a uniform caramelized crust.
• Torch Alternative: If you don’t have a blow torch, you can caramelize the sugar under a broiler. Watch closely to prevent burning.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavors like adding a bit of espresso powder to the custard or infusing the cream with lavender.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crème Brûlée in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Refrain from caramelizing the sugar until just before serving to maintain the crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Crème Brûlée ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the custards ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. Caramelize the sugar just before serving.

What if I don’t have a blow torch?

You can use your oven’s broiler to caramelize the sugar. Place the ramekins under the broiler and watch closely until the sugar melts and turns golden brown.

How do I know when the custard is done?

The custard is done when the edges are set but the center still wobbles slightly when gently shaken. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?

Yes, you can use turbinado sugar or superfine sugar for the topping. They both caramelize well and add a slightly different flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Easy and Amazing Crème Brûlée Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dessert at home. With its creamy custard and crisp caramelized sugar topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that’s both elegant and delicious.