Craving something sweet and creamy? Try Crème Brûlée! It's a French classic that tastes like heaven. You just need a few ingredients. Keep reading to see how easy it is.
Crème Brûlée is great all year but shines at holiday dinners. Want more sweet ideas? Check out my Vanilla Bean Ice Cream or Learn How to Make Nougat.
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Ingredients
- Cream
- Sugar
- Vanilla pod
- Egg yolks
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Start with Vanilla Cream
Heat cream and vanilla pod until almost simmering. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak up the vanilla flavor.
Combine Mixes
Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg mix. Stir as you pour.
Ready Ramekins
Pour the mix into ramekins. Don't overfill.
Bake
Put ramekins in a water bath. Bake until firm.
Finish Off
Cool down, sprinkle sugar, and torch it.
Hint: Don't rush the baking. If the inside isn't set, it ruins the texture.
Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream.
Variations
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist.
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Whisk
- Ramekins
- Blow torch
If you don't have a torch, broil the sugar tops.
Storage
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don't freeze; it changes the texture.
Top tip
Get the sugar layer thin and even. It makes the best crust.
FAQ
Yes, white sugar works best.
It's better but you can broil.
Yes, but flavor is weaker.
At least 2 hours.
It cooks more evenly.
Yes, for dairy-free.
Yes, but torch just before serving.
Internal temp should be 170-175F.
Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Likely undercooked or overcooked.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
How to Make French Crème Brûlée for Beginners
Make the best Crème Brûlée at home with this easy guide. Perfect texture and flavor in under an hour. Delight your taste buds with this French classic.
- Total Time: 1 hr 5 min
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
550ml (2 ⅓ cups) Cream 35%
50g (¼ cup) Sugar
1 Vanilla pod
5 Egg yolks
More sugar for the tops
Instructions
French Crème Brûlée
- Heat cream and vanilla till almost simmering.
- Let it infuse for 10 minutes.
- Whisk yolks and sugar until sugar melts.
- Add vanilla cream to egg mix while stirring.
- Fill ramekins. Don't overfill.
- Place in water bath. Water halfway up ramekin.
- Bake 30-45 mins or until thicker.
- Check temp: 170F-175F is good.
- Cool down fully.
- Add thin sugar layer on top.
- Melt sugar with torch for hard caramel.
- Eat and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Food safety
- Always cook to the right internal temperature.
- Use fresh cream and eggs.
Vladimir.J
Creme brulee is one of my favorite recipe!