If you’re looking to impress your guests with a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make, then look no further than this Easy Crème Brûlée recipe. With just 6 common ingredients and a few easy steps, you can achieve that irresistible creamy custard topped with a crackling caramelized sugar crust. Thanks to Sally’s Baking Addiction, this dessert is a true delight for your taste buds and your guests. Let’s dive into this sweet indulgence and get ready to create some culinary magic!
**Easy Crème Brûlée Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 5 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 6 tablespoons of additional granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place a kitchen towel in the bottom of a baking dish and arrange six ramekins on the towel. The towel will prevent the ramekins from sliding around during baking.
2. **Prepare the Custard Mixture:** In a medium saucepan, pour the heavy cream and heat it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until tiny bubbles form around the edges – do not let the mixture boil.
3. **Whisk the Egg Yolks:** While the cream is heating, in a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and slightly thickened.
4. **Temper the Eggs:** Once the cream is hot, gradually pour it into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. This step ensures the eggs do not scramble when combined with the hot cream.
5. **Strain the Mixture:** Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or a bowl with a spout. This will help remove any lumps and ensure a smooth custard.
6. **Fill the Ramekins:** Divide the custard mixture evenly among the ramekins, filling them almost to the top. Place the baking dish with the ramekins in the oven, then carefully pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. **Bake the Crème Brûlée:** Bake the crème brûlée for about 40-45 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers slightly jiggle. Remove from the oven and let the ramekins cool in the water bath before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Chill the custards in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 48 hours.
8. **Caramelize the Sugar:** Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each custard. You can use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden and crunchy crust, or place the ramekins under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the sugar has caramelized, allow it to cool for a minute until it hardens. Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves if desired, and serve your Easy Crème Brûlée to your delighted guests.
Indulge in the velvety smoothness of the custard contrasted with the crisp caramelized sugar for a dessert experience that’s both luxurious and comforting. This recipe is a fantastic choice for special occasions or whenever you crave a little something sweet. Be sure to share the joy by making these delightful treats for your friends and family – they’ll be impressed by your baking prowess!
