Crème Brûlée is a luxurious French dessert, featuring a rich and silky vanilla custard topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust. This elegant treat is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for special occasions!
Ingredients:
✅ 2 cups heavy cream
✅ 4 large egg yolks
✅ ½ cup sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
✅ 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped)
✅ 1 pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F).
2️⃣ In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to steam (do not boil).
3️⃣ If using a vanilla bean, scrape the seeds into the cream and add the pod for extra flavor. Let it steep for 5 minutes, then remove the pod.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks
4️⃣ In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale and slightly thickened.
5️⃣ Slowly pour the warm cream into the yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
Step 3: Bake the Custard
6️⃣ Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps.
7️⃣ Divide the custard into 4-6 ramekins and place them in a deep baking dish.
8️⃣ Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the ramekins (this creates a gentle baking environment).
9️⃣ Bake for 30-40 minutes, until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 4: Chill & Caramelize
🔟 Remove from the oven, let cool, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours (preferably overnight).
1️⃣1️⃣ Before serving, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of sugar evenly on top of each custard.
1️⃣2️⃣ Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch until golden and crisp. Alternatively, place under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
🌿 Let the caramel cool for 1 minute, then crack through the crisp topping with a spoon. Serve as is or with fresh berries for an extra touch. Bon appétit! 🇫🇷🍮