Crème brûlée is the epitome of French dessert sophistication—creamy, indulgent, and topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust. Despite its elegant presentation, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make at home. Let’s dive into the recipe and a few tips to master this timeless treat.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar (plus extra for the topping)
• 2 cups (500ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or seeds from 1 vanilla bean)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven:
• Set your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Prepare the custard:
• In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture turns pale and creamy.
• In a saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and vanilla until it’s warm but not boiling. Remove from heat.
• Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
3. Strain the mixture:
• Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the custard into a pouring jug. This step ensures a silky-smooth texture.
4. Bake the custards:
• Divide the mixture evenly into 4 ramekins.
• Place the ramekins in a deep baking dish and fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
5. Chill:
• Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the custard to set completely.
6. Caramelize the sugar:
• Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar on top of each custard.
• Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, place the ramekins under a hot broiler for a few seconds, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Tips for Success
• Vanilla: For the best flavor, use fresh vanilla beans or high-quality vanilla extract.
• Even Baking: Ensure the water bath is filled with hot water to help the custards cook gently and evenly.
• Torch Technique: Hold the torch about 2 inches from the surface and move it in small circles for even caramelization.
Crème brûlée is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the satisfying crack of the sugar crust to the creamy custard beneath, this classic French dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe for your next dinner party or as a special treat for yourself!
What’s your favorite twist on crème brûlée? Share your ideas in the comments!
