Get ready to dive into a world of creamy, dreamy delight with this Classic Crème Brûlée recipe! Perfect for impressing your dinner guests or simply indulging in a little self-love. Break through that crispy caramelized top and enjoy the smooth custard beneath.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking dish with a towel to snugly cradle your ramekins.
In a saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and the sliced open vanilla bean (with its seeds) over medium heat. Remove just before it boils and let it steep for about 15 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and pale.
Slowly pour the warm vanilla cream into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling.
Strain this velvety blend into ramekins. Place the ramekins in your prepared baking dish and add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Carefully transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the custards are set but still wiggly in the center.
Remove from the oven and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard. Use a torch or broiler to caramelize the sugar until it forms a satisfyingly crunchy layer.
Allowing the cream to steep with the vanilla bean enhances the flavor, giving your crème brûlée a more aromatic and rich taste.
Using a water bath helps the custards cook evenly and prevents them from cracking.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a sprig of mint before serving.
Keep any leftover crème brûlée in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 2 days. Avoid caramelizing the sugar until you’re ready to serve.
Find it online: https://www.chyachya.com/classic-creme-brulee/