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How to Make Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée

Discover the art of creating perfectly creamy Crème Brûlée with the rich flavor of real vanilla beans. This elegant French dessert combines a velvety custard base with a satisfyingly crunchy caramelized sugar topping, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will impress any dinner guest.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Servings

4

Difficulty

Intermediate

Simple Summary

Indulge in the luxurious elegance of Crème Brûlée with Vanilla Bean, a classic French dessert featuring a silky custard base infused with real vanilla, topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Boiling water for water bath

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).

  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and split vanilla bean. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.

  3. Remove the vanilla bean from the cream. Scrape the seeds from the pod and add them back into the cream. Discard the pod.

  4. In a large bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup sugar, egg yolks, and salt until pale and slightly thickened.

  5. Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

  6. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or pitcher for easy pouring.

  7. Place 4 ramekins in a large baking dish. Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins.

  8. Carefully pour boiling water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

  9. Carefully transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

  10. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

  11. When ready to serve, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly over the surface of each custard.

  12. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and forms a crisp top. Alternatively, place the ramekins under a broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

  13. Let the caramelized sugar cool and harden for a few minutes before serving.

Chef's Notes

  • For the best flavor, use high-quality vanilla beans. If unavailable, substitute with 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract.
  • Ensure the water bath doesn't get into the custards while baking.
  • The custards can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and kept refrigerated. Caramelize the sugar just before serving.
  • For a twist, try infusing the cream with different flavors like lavender, coffee, or citrus zest.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Rich in Vitamin A and calcium

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Crème Brûlée as a sophisticated finale to a French-inspired meal. Pair with fresh berries or a small glass of dessert wine like Sauternes. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar around the edge of the plate. This dessert is perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or when you want to impress guests with your culinary skills.