Why Make This Recipe
Classic Crème Brûlée is a timeless dessert loved by many for its creamy texture and crispy caramel topping. It offers a delightful contrast between the smooth custard and the crunchy sugar crust. Making this dessert at home can impress your friends and family, and it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and elegant treat that brings a touch of luxury to any occasion.
How to Make Classic Crème Brûlée
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and vanilla extract over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until well combined and creamy.
- Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to remove any lumps.
- Pour the custard into ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Bake for about 30-40 minutes or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle light brown sugar evenly over the top of each custard and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy layer.
- Let it cool for a minute before serving, and enjoy your classic Crème Brûlée!
How to Serve Classic Crème Brûlée
Serve Classic Crème Brûlée chilled, directly from the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed after you have caramelized the sugar on top, giving it that signature crack when you tap it with a spoon. Pair it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch.
How to Store Classic Crème Brûlée
To store Crème Brûlée, keep it covered in the refrigerator. It is best to add the caramelized sugar layer just before serving. The custard will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Avoid freezing it, as this can change the texture of the custard.
Tips to Make Classic Crème Brûlée
- Make sure the cream is hot but not boiling when you add it to the egg yolks to prevent curdling.
- Use a fine-mesh sieve for a smoother custard.
- Allow the custard to cool completely before refrigerating to ensure it sets perfectly.
Variation
You can experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like orange zest, chocolate, or espresso to the cream mixture. This can add a unique twist to your Classic Crème Brûlée.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Using milk will result in a lighter dessert, but the texture and richness will change. Heavy cream is recommended for the best results.
2. How can I caramelize the sugar without a kitchen torch?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the ramekins under the broiler in your oven. Watch them closely, as the sugar can burn quickly.
3. Can I make Crème Brûlée ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the sugar and caramelize it right before serving.
