Desserts > Custards & Puddings > Baked Custards > Crème brûlée Recipe

Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée

Indulge in the rich, creamy texture and delicate vanilla flavor of homemade Crème Brûlée. This classic French dessert features a smooth custard base topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar crust. A truly decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30-40 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 Vanilla Bean
  • 6 Egg Yolks
  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 4-6 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (for topping)

Infuse the Cream

Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and vanilla bean (split lengthwise and seeds scraped). Heat over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.

Prepare the Custard Base

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Slowly pour the warm cream (remove the vanilla bean pod) into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.

Strain and Pour

Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. Divide the custard evenly among 4-6 ramekins.

Bake in a Water Bath

Place the ramekins in a baking dish. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the custards are set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Chill

Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

Caramelize the Sugar

Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar, moving the flame evenly across the surface until golden brown and crisp. Alternatively, you can broil the custards for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Let the caramelized sugar cool and harden slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 300-350, Fat: 25-30g, Saturated Fat: 15-20g, Cholesterol: 200-250mg, Sodium: 30-50mg, Carbohydrates: 15-20g, Sugar: 15-20g, Protein: 4-5g. These are estimates and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Crème brûlée is a rich dessert, high in fat and sugar. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider using lower-fat cream alternatives to reduce the fat content slightly, but be aware that this may affect the texture of the custard. Fresh berries can be added as a topping to provide additional nutrients and fiber.

← Classic Stovetop Vanilla Pudding Classic Vanilla Flan →

FAQ

  • How do I know when the crème brûlée is done?

    The edges of the custard should be set, but the center should still jiggle slightly when gently shaken. It will continue to set as it cools.
  • What if I don't have a kitchen torch?

    You can use the broiler in your oven. Place the ramekins under the broiler for a few minutes, watching very closely to prevent the sugar from burning. Rotate the ramekins for even caramelization.
  • Can I make crème brûlée ahead of time?

    Yes! The custard can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Caramelize the sugar just before serving.