Crème Brûlée Recipe

Preparation Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the Cream Mixture

   In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and split vanilla beans (scrape the seeds into the cream and add the pods as well). Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.

2. 2

   Mix Sugar and Egg Yolks

   In a 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

   Once the cream has steeped, remove the vanilla pods. Gradually whisk the warm cream into the egg yolk mixture until fully combined.

4. 4

   Bake the Custards

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

5. 5

   Cool and Chill

   Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

6. 6

   Caramelize the Sugar

   Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of brown sugar over the top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden crust. Allow to cool for a minute before serving.