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How to make perfect creme brulee

Crème Brûlée Secrets: How to Make it at Home


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4.9 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Sarah Kenney
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6

Description

The classic French dessert that combines rich, creamy custard with a crispy, caramelized sugar topping is surprisingly simple to make at home.


Ingredients

  • Heavy cream: 1 quart (950 ml)
  • Vanilla bean: 1, split and scraped
  • Vanilla sugar: 1 cup (200 g), divided (1/2 cup for custard, 1/2 cup for topping) *see note below
  • Large egg yolks: 6
  • Hot water: 2 quarts (1.9 liters)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Ingredients

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.

2. Heat the Cream

  • In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, vanilla bean, and its pulp.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then remove from heat.
  • Cover and let it sit for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  • Remove the vanilla bean after infusion and reserve it for another use.

3. Mix the Egg Yolks and Sugar

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup (100 g) of vanilla sugar and the egg yolks.
  • Whisk until well blended and the mixture starts to lighten in color.

4. Combine the Cream and Egg Mixture

  • Gradually add the warm cream to the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.

5. Pour into Ramekins

  • Pour the custard mixture into 6 (7 to 8-ounce) ramekins, evenly distributing the liquid.

6. Prepare the Water Bath

  • Place the ramekins in a large baking dish or roasting pan.
  • Pour enough hot water into the pan to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

7. Bake the Crème Brûlée

  • Bake in the preheated oven until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center, approximately 40 to 45 minutes.
  • Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool at room temperature.

8. Chill the Custards

  • Refrigerate the custards for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days.

9. Prepare to Serve

  • Remove the ramekins from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving.

10. Caramelize the Sugar

  • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (100 g) of vanilla sugar evenly on top of the custards.
  • Using a kitchen torch, melt the sugar until it forms a crispy, caramelized top.

11. Final Touch

  • Let the caramelized sugar sit for at least 5 minutes before serving to allow it to harden.

Notes

  • Vanilla Sugar Substitute: If you don’t have vanilla sugar, you can use regular granulated sugar and add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
  • Vanilla Bean Substitute: If you don’t have a vanilla bean, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, adding it after the cream has been heated.
  • Hot Water Bath: Ensuring the water bath is halfway up the sides of the ramekins helps the custard cook evenly.
  • Using a Torch: Move the torch in a circular motion to avoid burning the sugar.
  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 45 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5oz
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 48g
  • Saturated Fat: 28g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Fiber: 0
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 330mg