There’s something undeniably special about the classic dessert known as Crème Brûlée. With its perfectly smooth custard and crunchy caramelized sugar topping, it’s a timeless treat that never fails to impress. While it may seem like a luxurious dessert reserved for fine dining, making Crème Brûlée at home is easier than you might think. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create your own sophisticated and decadent Crème Brûlée right in your own kitchen.
Title: Crème Brûlée
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and place six ramekins in a baking dish. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until it just starts to simmer. Be careful not to boil it.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until well combined and slightly thickened.
4. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps and divide it among the ramekins.
7. Place the baking dish with the ramekins inside the preheated oven. Carefully pour hot water into the dish, filling it halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will help the custards cook evenly.
8. Bake the Crème Brûlée in the water bath for about 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are slightly jiggly.
9. Once baked, remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to set.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of brown sugar over each custard.
11. Caramelize the sugar using a kitchen torch, moving it in a circular motion until the sugar has melted and formed a crisp, golden top. Be cautious while using the torch.
12. Let the Crème Brûlée sit for a few minutes to allow the sugar to harden before serving.
Take pleasure in cracking through the crunchy caramelized sugar to reveal the delicate custard underneath. This simple yet elegant dessert is sure to impress your family and guests. Enjoy the luxurious experience of indulging in homemade Crème Brûlée right in the comfort of your own home. Bon appétit!
