Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with Classic Crème Brûlée, a luxurious treat that combines a silky smooth custard base with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. This elegant French dessert is surprisingly easy to make at home, perfect for special occasions or impressing your guests. With rich flavors and a delightful texture, this crème brûlée is a timeless classic that never goes out of style.
Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
5 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place 4 to 6 ramekins in a baking dish.
- Heat Cream: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and vanilla bean seeds (or vanilla extract). Heat over medium heat until the cream begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare Custard Base: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until pale and thick.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Strain and Pour: Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl with a spout. Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins.
- Bake: Pour hot water into the baking dish around the ramekins, filling it halfway up the sides of the ramekins to create a water bath. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
- Caramelize Sugar: Just before serving, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the tops of the custards. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
Notes
For a more intense vanilla flavor, use a vanilla bean instead of vanilla extract.
Ensure the custard is completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation from forming on the surface.
Caramelize the sugar just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
Keywords: Classic Crème Brûlée, French dessert, creamy custard, caramelized sugar, easy crème brûlée recipe, homemade crème brûlée