Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsThe Crown TavernCrème Brulee Recipe

Crème Brulee Recipe

Inspired by The Crown Tavern
Time2h
Serves4

Vanilla flavored custard with caramelized sugar crust, berries and whipped cream

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Ingredients

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Custard Base

Caramelized Topping

Garnish

Method

Custard Preparation

  1. 1

    Heat the Cream

    In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and split vanilla bean (scrape seeds into the cream and add the pod). Heat over medium heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling. 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 thick and pale.

  3. 3

    Combine Mixtures

    Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the vanilla pod and any curdled bits.

  4. 4

    Prepare for Baking

    Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pour the custard mixture into ramekins, filling them about three-quarters full. Place the ramekins in a baking dish and fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

  5. 5

    Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the water bath and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Caramelization

  1. 6

    Caramelize the Sugar

    Once the custards are chilled, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of each custard. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a hard, glassy crust. If you don’t have a torch, place the ramekins under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Serving

  1. 7

    Garnish and Serve

    Top each crème brûlée with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of mixed berries. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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