Decadent Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Delight

Ingredients

- 2 cups heavy cream
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for caramelization
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or seeds from 1 vanilla bean

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Prepare the Cream Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract or seeds over medium heat.
- Stir gently and heat just until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until well combined and the mixture is pale in color.

4. Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually pour the warm cream into the egg yolk and sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.

5. Strain and Fill Ramekins:
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any curdled bits.
- Divide the custard mixture evenly among 6 ramekins.

6. Create a Water Bath:
- Place the ramekins in a large roasting pan. Carefully pour hot water into the pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

7. Bake:
- Gently transfer the roasting pan to the oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

8. Cool and Chill:
- Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled.

9. Caramelize the Sugar:
- Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over each chilled custard.
- Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt and caramelize the sugar until a crackling, golden crust forms.

10. Serve:
- Allow the sugar to cool and harden for a minute before serving. Enjoy the delightful contrast of the crisp caramel top and creamy custard beneath.

Preparation & Cooking Times

- Preparation Time: PT20M
20 minutes
- Cooking Time: PT45M
45 minutes
- Chill Time: PT120M
2 hours

Total Time

- PT3H5M
3 hours and 5 minutes

Type of Dish

- Dessert

Keywords

- Crème Brûlée
- Vanilla Dessert
- Oven-Roasted Custard
- Luxurious Dessert
- Caramelized Sugar
- Elegant Sweets
- Smooth Custard
- Vanilla Bean
- French Cuisine
- Gourmet Treat

Recipe Yield

- Feeds 4 adults

Calories

- Total: 2400 calories

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