Classic Crème Brûlée Recipe
Crème brûlée is a delicious and elegant French dessert that is surprisingly easy to make. It consists of a rich, creamy custard topped with a thin layer of caramelized sugar. The contrasting textures and flavors are simply divine!
Ingredients:
* 4 large egg yolks
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* Granulated sugar for caramelizing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until well combined and pale yellow.
3. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Do not boil.
4. Slowly whisk the hot cream into the egg yolk mixture, a little at a time, tempering the eggs.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
6. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher.
7. Divide the custard evenly among 6 (4-ounce) ramekins.
8. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and carefully pour enough hot water into the dish to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
10. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool completely on a wire rack.
11. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
12. To caramelize the sugar, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each custard.
13. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until golden brown. Alternatively, you can broil the ramekins for a minute or two, watching closely to avoid burning.
14. Let the sugar cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
* Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
* Do not overcook the custard, or it will become rubbery.
* Make sure the sugar is evenly distributed before caramelizing.
* Be careful not to burn the sugar when caramelizing.
* For a more intense vanilla flavor, use vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
* You can also experiment with different flavors, such as chocolate, coffee, or hazelnut.
Enjoy your delicious homemade crème brûlée!