Creme brûlée is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Its smooth, custardy center and the satisfying crack of the caramelized sugar topping create a delightful textural and flavor contrast.
Impress your guests with this classic French dessert featuring a smooth, vanilla-infused custard and a crackling caramelized sugar topping. Simple to make yet undeniably elegant, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Ramekins (4-6 depending on size)
Here’s how you do it:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat cream in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Do not boil. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until pale and thick.
- Slowly whisk hot cream into egg mixture in a thin stream, then whisk in salt.
- Pour custard into ramekins. Place ramekins in a baking dish and carefully add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins (water bath).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- When ready to serve, sprinkle each ramekin with a thin layer of sugar. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and bubbly. Alternatively, broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Let caramelized sugar cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the satisfying crack as you break through the caramelized top to reveal the creamy custard beneath.
Tips:
- For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to the cream for a subtle coffee flavor.
- Infuse the cream with aromatics like lavender, orange peel, or spices before heating for a unique twist.
- Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of liqueur for an extra touch of decadence.
Remember, winters in Sacramento are all about enjoying the sunshine, celebrating local treasures, and making your home a warm haven. So grab a cup of your favorite California brew, put on your flip-flops (yes, really!), and let these tips brighten your winter!