Silky Vanilla Bean Custard Brûlée

Ingredients

- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup water
- Additional sugar for brûlée topping

Instructions

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

2. Prepare the Custard Base: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is pale and slightly thickened.

3. Heat the Cream: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy whipping cream, water, and a pinch of salt. Heat until the cream begins to simmer, but do not let it boil. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking. This gradual incorporation will ensure the yolks do not cook too quickly.

5. Strain the Mixture: Pass the combined mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or a bowl with a spout to remove any egg solids.

6. Prepare Ramekins: Place four 6-ounce ramekins in a large baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly into the ramekins.

7. Create a Water Bath: Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will provide consistent, gentle heat to bake the custard evenly.

8. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake the custards for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly when shaken.

9. Cool and Chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath using tongs and let them cool to room temperature. Once cool, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully cooled and set.

10. Brûlée Topping: Just before serving, remove the custards from the refrigerator. Sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over each custard. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it’s golden brown and crisp. Allow the sugar topping to cool and harden before serving.

Total Time

PT4H50M
4 hours and 50 minutes

Type of Dish

Dessert

Keywords

Custard, Crème Brûlée, Vanilla Dessert, Egg Yolks, Elegant Dessert, Baking, Sweet Treat, Gourmet Dessert, Oven Baked, French Cuisine

Recipe Yield

Serves 4 adults

Calories

Total: 1,220 calories

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