Easy Crème Brûlée

Name: Easy Crème Brûlée
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 5 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Discover the simple pleasure of making your own Easy Crème Brûlée at home. This classic dessert features a silky vanilla custard topped with a crisp layer of caramelized sugar, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T21:33:44.192Z

Crème Brûlée is a beloved classic that has been enjoyed for centuries. Its rich, creamy texture and satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar make it a favorite among dessert lovers. With this easy recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert in your own kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor complemented by a caramelized sugar topping
Silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth
Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients

      

The History of Crème Brûlée

Crème Brûlée, which translates to 'burnt cream' in French, is a classic dessert that has captivated taste buds since the 17th century. Its origins are often debated, with some tracing it back to England, where it was known as 'Trinity Cream,' while others firmly place it in French cuisine. Regardless of its beginnings, this dessert has become a staple in fine dining and home cooking alike, celebrated for its elegant presentation and delightful contrast of textures.

Traditionally, Crème Brûlée features a custard base infused with vanilla, topped with a layer of hardened caramel. The process of caramelizing the sugar on top is what gives this dessert its signature crackling crust. This dessert not only showcases the skill of the chef but also invites the diner to participate in the experience, as they crack through the delicious sugar shell to reveal the creamy custard beneath.

Perfect Pairings

Crème Brûlée is a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. A fresh berry compote or a scoop of sorbet can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the custard. Alternatively, serving it with a side of espresso or coffee enhances the flavors and creates a delightful end to any meal.

For an elevated experience, consider pairing this dessert with dessert wines like Sauternes or Moscato. The sweetness and complexity of these wines complement the rich vanilla flavors and creamy texture of the Crème Brûlée, making each bite even more indulgent. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, these pairings will impress and delight your guests.

Ingredients

For the Custard

2 cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Pinch of salt

For the Topping

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Gather all your ingredients before starting for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and vanilla extract over medium heat until just simmering. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until well combined.

Combine and Strain

Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a measuring cup.

Bake the Custards

Place ramekins in a baking dish and fill them with the custard mixture. Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish around the ramekins, about halfway up the sides. Bake for 30 minutes, until just set.

Chill

Remove from the oven and let cool before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Caramelize the Sugar

Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crispy. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade crème brûlée with a side of fresh berries or on its own!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Crème Brûlée, be sure to use high-quality ingredients, especially the vanilla extract. Real vanilla beans can elevate the flavor significantly, giving a more aromatic and rich taste compared to artificial extracts. Additionally, ensure that your heavy cream is fresh for optimal creaminess.

When baking the custards, avoid overcooking them. They should be set around the edges but still have a slight jiggle in the center. This will help maintain that silky texture you're aiming for. Also, using a water bath while baking not only prevents the custard from cooking too quickly but also promotes even heating.

Storing Your Crème Brûlée

If you have leftovers or want to prepare your Crème Brûlée in advance, simply cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it's best to caramelize the sugar just before serving to ensure that it retains its crispy texture. If you do need to store the completed dessert, avoid adding the sugar topping until you're ready to serve.

Reheating Crème Brûlée is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the custard and ruin the delicate balance of flavors. Instead, enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat, or allow it to come to room temperature before you caramelize the sugar for serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make crème brûlée ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custards a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to caramelize the sugar.

→ What type of sugar should I use for the topping?

Granulated sugar works best for caramelizing, but you can also use superfine sugar for a finer texture.

→ What if I don't have a kitchen torch?

You can broil the crème brûlée in your oven. Just watch closely to prevent burning.

→ Can I flavor the custard?

Absolutely! You can infuse the cream with flavors like lavender, orange zest, or espresso for a unique twist.