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Vanilla Crème Brulée

Prep15 min
Cook35 min
Total50 min
Yield3 portions
LevelIntermediate
 
 
About This Recipe

This creamy and decadent Vanilla Crème Brulée recipe is a French classic that’s sure to impress. The secret to the perfect crème brulée lies in using high-quality ingredients, especially pure vanilla extract or, better yet, a vanilla bean for an intense and aromatic flavor. With a smooth custard base and a perfectly caramelized top, it’s […]

Scale This Recipe

Servings

Ingredients

Units
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 0.25 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons sugar to caramelize
  • 0.5 vanilla bean or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla

Instructions

Make the custard:
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325° F. some water, and prepare the Bain Marie by placing the ramekins into a 4 x 6-inch baking pan. Usually, ramekins are about 1 inch high.

  2. 2
    Split the vanilla bean in half and scrape the seeds into the cream. Boil the cream with the vanilla. Put the yolks in a bowl. When the cream is almost boiling, add the sugar and gently whisk. Pour the boiling cream on top of the yolk and sugar mixture. Gently stir, just enough to mix well. Do not over whip! Remove foam using a . Fill the ramekins using a small ladle. Pop the bubbles if any appear.
Cook in the oven:
  1. 3

     Place the Bain Marie pan in the oven, fill the pan to the top with boiling water. Do not allow any water to fall into the ramekins. Cook for about 35 minutes or until set. Gently jiggle the ramekins to determine whether the Crème Brulée is done. The centers should wiggle just slightly.

  2. 4
    Remove from the oven when cooked, remove from the Bain Marie, cool and refrigerate.
Finish and serve:
  1. 5

     Crème Brulée is served in the mold. Sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar in a thin layer and, using a , caramelize!

Techniques in this recipe
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Tools Used in This Recipe

KitchenAid
Immersion Blender
Victorinox
8" Chef's Knife
All-Clad
Heavy-Bottom Stock Pot
Chef's Notes

Watch your eggs closely near the end — a few extra seconds is the difference between silky and overcooked. You'll find techniques like this one across our full course library.

If you'd ever like hands-on guidance for your own kitchen or restaurant, I also offer 1-on-1 coaching through OCS, or you can reach me directly for consulting at 911ChefEric.com.

— Chef Eric

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