Classic Creme Brulee Recipe

This classic creme brulee recipe will transport you to a French patisserie with its sweet and creamy custard base and caramelized sugar topping. Indulge yourself in this luxurious dessert that is sure to impress your friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a dessert that is both elegant and decadent. The smooth vanilla-infused custard is perfectly complemented by the crackling caramelized sugar, creating a heavenly contrast of textures and flavors. Treat yourself to the ultimate indulgence with this delicious creme brulee recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 6 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for caramelizing

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Scrape the vanilla seeds from the vanilla bean and add them to the saucepan, along with the split vanilla bean.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until pale and thick.
5. Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
6. Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or vanilla bean remnants.
7. Place six ramekins in a baking dish and divide the custard evenly among them.
8. Create a water bath by pouring hot water into the baking dish, making sure it reaches about halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
9. Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
10. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to chill and firm up.
11. When ready to serve, sprinkle a thin and even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each custard.
12. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it becomes amber and crispy. Alternatively, you can place the ramekins under the broiler for a few minutes until the sugar caramelizes.
13. Allow the caramelized sugar to harden for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creme brulee by cracking through the caramelized sugar crust with a spoon and savoring the smooth custard underneath.

Interesting Facts