Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsThe Classic Kitchen & CocktailsCrème Brûlée Recipe

Crème Brûlée Recipe

Time2h
Serves4

Indulge in our classic Crème Brûlée, a rich vanilla custard topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust for a delightful contrast of textures.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Crème Brûlée Ingredients

Method

Crème Brûlée Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Cream

    In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the cream, adding the pod as well. Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let it steep for about 15 minutes.

  2. 2

    Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.

  3. 3

    Combine Mixtures

    Remove the vanilla pod from the cream and gradually pour the warm cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

  4. 4

    Strain the Mixture

    Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.

  5. 5

    Bake

    Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Divide the custard mixture among ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly jiggly.

  6. 6

    Cool and Chill

    Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

  7. 7

    Caramelize the Sugar

    Sprinkle a thin layer of brown sugar on top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it forms a crispy caramel crust. If you don't have a torch, place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

  8. 8

    Serve

    Let the crème brûlée sit for a couple of minutes to allow the sugar to harden before serving. Enjoy!

More from The Classic Kitchen & Cocktails