Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Recipe: A Classic French Dessert Made Easy
Introduction: Why Crème Brûlée is a Timeless Dessert
Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée is a French classic with global appeal—and it’s trending again in American kitchens. Whether you're planning a romantic dinner, holiday party, or want to impress guests, this rich custard topped with a crackling sugar crust always delivers.
Unlike shortcuts with extracts or powders, real vanilla beans bring flavor depth, elegance, and visible vanilla flecks — the hallmark of a true gourmet crème brûlée.
What Makes This Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Recipe Special
- Uses Whole Vanilla Beans – Authentic taste and aroma
- Simple Ingredients – Cream, yolks, sugar, and time
- Restaurant-Quality – But easy to make at home
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
- 1 whole vanilla bean (split lengthwise, seeds scraped)
- 5 large egg yolks
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4–6 tsp granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)
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Instructions: Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Infuse the Cream
In a saucepan, add heavy cream, vanilla bean seeds, and the pod. Heat on medium until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 15–20 minutes to extract full flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and salt until smooth and pale. Slowly whisk in the warm vanilla cream, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling.
Step 3: Strain & Pour
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids. Pour into ramekins (4 to 6 depending on size).
Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath
Place ramekins in a baking dish. Add hot water to halfway up the sides. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30–35 minutes or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 5: Chill
Remove from water, cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to fully set and deepen the flavor.
Step 6: Torch and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle each custard with 1–2 teaspoons of sugar. Torch the tops until caramelized and golden. Wait 2 minutes before cracking the crust with your spoon. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Use room-temperature egg yolks—prevents curdling
- Don’t Overbake—Look for a slight wobble in the center
- Torch Alternatives—Use a broiler on high for 1–2 minutes as a substitute
- Infuse Extra Flavor—Add a hint of orange zest or a splash of Grand Marnier for variation
