Jul 09 2026
Restaurantsblack & blue Steak and Crab, Albany, NYVanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Recipe

Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Recipe

Time2h
Serves4

Make Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Recipe in just 2h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Custard Base

Topping

Method

Prepare the Custard

  1. 1

    Heat the Cream

    In a medium saucepan, pour the heavy cream and split the vanilla bean lengthwise. Scrape the seeds into the cream and add the emptied vanilla pod. Heat over medium-low heat until it is just about to simmer, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.

  2. 2

    Whisk Egg Yolks

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.

  3. 3

    Combine Mixtures

    Remove the vanilla pod from the cream. Gradually pour the warm cream into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking to temper the yolks. This will prevent curdling.

  4. 4

    Strain the Mixture

    Pour the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg.

Bake the Crème Brûlée

  1. 5

    Prepare the Ramekins

    Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Place 4 ramekins in a baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly into each ramekin.

  2. 6

    Add Water Bath

    Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This will ensure even cooking.

  3. 7

    Bake

    Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

  4. 8

    Cool

    Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

Caramelize the Sugar

  1. 9

    Prepare to Caramelize

    Once the custards have chilled, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each custard.

  2. 10

    Caramelize the Sugar

    Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. Alternatively, place the ramekins under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

  3. 11

    Let it Set

    Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden for a few minutes before serving.

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