French Crème Brûlée (Elegant & Classic Dessert)

⏳ Prep Time: 15 minutes | ⏳ Cook Time: 35 minutes | ⏳ Chill Time: 2 hours | 🍽️ Servings: 4

Description:

Few desserts are as decadent and internationally adored as Crème Brûlée. This French classic features a silky smooth vanilla custard topped with a crispy, caramelized sugar crust. The contrast between the creamy interior and the crackly golden topping makes this dessert irresistibly satisfying. Perfect for a special occasion or a touch of Parisian luxury at home! 🇫🇷🍮✨

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or ½ vanilla bean, seeds scraped)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract (or vanilla bean seeds).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale and creamy.
4. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.

Step 2: Bake the Custard

5. Strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve into ramekins to remove any lumps.
6. Place ramekins in a deep baking dish and pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a gentle water bath).
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 3: Chill & Caramelize

8. Remove from the oven, let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
9. Before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each custard.
10. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. If using an oven broiler, place ramekins under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

11. Let the caramelized sugar set for a minute before serving. Enjoy with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

• Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Add a splash of espresso for a Café au Lait twist.
• Infuse the cream with lavender or citrus zest for a unique flavor.