Crème brûlée is a smooth, creamy custard topped with a thin layer of crisp caramelized sugar. It feels elegant and special, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make at home. With a short ingredient list and easy steps, this dessert is perfect for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

Why You’ll Love It

This dessert delivers a rich vanilla flavor with a silky texture and a satisfying crackle on top. It’s make-ahead friendly, requires minimal prep, and always impresses at the table.

What You’ll Need (Ingredients)

Heavy cream — creates a rich and smooth custard base
Egg yolks — thicken the custard and add creaminess
Granulated sugar — sweetens the custard and forms the caramelized topping
Vanilla extract or vanilla bean — adds classic flavor
Salt — balances sweetness
Hot water — used for the water bath during baking

Tools for This Recipe

Mixing bowls
Whisk
Saucepan
Fine mesh strainer (optional)
Ramekins
Baking pan
Spatula
Kitchen torch or oven broiler

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Overview)

Step Block 1 — Prep & Custard

Heat the cream with vanilla until just warm, not boiling
Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until smooth
Slowly whisk warm cream into the egg mixture
Strain for an extra-smooth texture
Pour custard into ramekins

Step Block 2 — Bake & Cool

Place ramekins in a baking pan
Add hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath
Bake at 325°F until edges are set and centers gently jiggle
Remove from oven and cool
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight

Step Block 3 — Caramelize

Sprinkle an even layer of sugar over chilled custard
Caramelize using a kitchen torch or broiler
Let the sugar harden before serving

Helpful Tips

Avoid boiling the cream to prevent curdling
Chill completely before adding sugar topping
Use a thin sugar layer for the best crack

Substitutions & Variations

Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract
Add citrus zest or coffee flavor to the cream
Top with fresh berries for a lighter finish

What to Serve With It

Serve with fresh fruit, tea, coffee, or as a standalone dessert after a light meal.

Leftovers & Storage

Store custards without sugar topping in the refrigerator
Keeps well for up to 3 days
Add sugar and caramelize just before serving

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the custard can be made up to 3 days in advance.

Do I need a torch?
No, a broiler works if watched closely.

How do I know it’s done baking?
The center should jiggle slightly when shaken.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as the water bath remains deep enough.

Conclusion

Crème brûlée is a timeless dessert that feels luxurious but is easy to prepare at home. With a creamy center and crisp caramel top, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser worth mastering.

Full Recipe