Easy Crème Brûlée Vanilla Torch

Name: Easy Crème Brûlée Vanilla Torch
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract); 5 large egg yolks; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup light brown sugar (for caramelizing)

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Indulge in the creamy delight of Easy Crème Brûlée Vanilla Torch, a classic dessert that's surprisingly simple to make.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-25T19:50:29.362Z

Crème brûlée is a beloved dessert that combines a rich custard base with a contrasting layer of hard caramel. This easy version allows you to create this classic delicacy at home with minimal effort.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Classic Dessert with a Twist

Crème brûlée is a timeless dessert that has delighted taste buds for centuries, and this Easy Crème Brûlée Vanilla Torch recipe gives it a modern twist. The combination of rich cream and vanilla creates a luxurious custard that pairs beautifully with the crisp caramelized sugar topping. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a great way to showcase your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful treat that looks and tastes gourmet. The technique of caramelizing the top brings an element of excitement, and using a kitchen torch adds a fun, interactive element to your dessert preparation. This recipe invites you to engage with the cooking process, making it not just about the end result but also about the experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Easy Crème Brûlée Vanilla Torch is versatile enough to be served on various occasions, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Its sophisticated appearance and rich flavor profile make it a standout dessert that guests will remember. You can easily scale the recipe to serve a crowd or keep it intimate for a cozy night in. No matter the setting, this dessert adds a touch of elegance and indulgence.

Additionally, crème brûlée can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. You can infuse it with flavors like espresso, lavender, or citrus to create unique variations. Experimenting with different toppings or flavorings can offer a delightful surprise for your palate, ensuring that this classic dessert remains fresh and exciting each time you prepare it.

Tips for the Perfect Crème Brûlée

To achieve the perfect texture for your crème brûlée, be sure to monitor the baking time closely. Overbaking can lead to a grainy texture, while underbaking may result in a runny custard. The ideal custard should have a silky smooth consistency that wobbles slightly in the center when you gently shake the ramekin. Using a thermometer to check the temperature of the custard can help ensure precision, aiming for a sweet spot around 170°F (77°C).

When it comes to caramelizing the sugar on top, using a kitchen torch is the best method for a crisp finish. Hold the torch a few inches above the sugar and move it in a circular motion to achieve even caramelization. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the ramekins under a broiler, but keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to burnt.

Ingredients

Crème Brûlée Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)
5 large egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar (for caramelizing)

Make sure to gather all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Prepare the Cream

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and vanilla bean over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes.

Mix the Egg Yolks

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and thick.

Combine Mixtures

Slowly add the warm cream to the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to prevent curdling. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another bowl.

Bake the Custards

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pour the custard mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

Bake for 30 minutes or until set.

Chill and Caramelize

Let the ramekins cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours. When ready to serve, sprinkle a thin layer of brown sugar on top of each custard and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.

Let the caramelized tops cool for a few moments before serving for the best texture experience!

Ingredient Insights

The quality of ingredients you choose significantly impacts the final result of your crème brûlée. Opt for fresh, high-quality heavy cream and real vanilla bean whenever possible, as these will infuse your dessert with a depth of flavor that's hard to replicate with artificial extracts. If you're using vanilla extract, ensure it's pure to keep the flavor authentic.

Egg yolks are the backbone of the custard. They contribute to the rich, creamy texture and help thicken the mixture during baking. Using large, fresh eggs will yield the best results, so avoid any older eggs that may not perform as well in this delicate recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Crème brûlée is delightful on its own, but pairing it with accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich custard. A dollop of whipped cream can also enhance the dessert's creaminess while providing a light, airy texture.

For a sophisticated touch, consider serving your crème brûlée with a glass of dessert wine or a fruity cocktail. The sweet notes in the wine will complement the vanilla beautifully, making for a lovely ending to any meal. Don't forget to garnish with a mint sprig for an added pop of color and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make crème brûlée in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the custard a day or two in advance and caramelize the sugar just before serving.

→ What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can use the broiler function of your oven to caramelize the sugar; just watch it closely to prevent burning.

→ Can I use milk instead of cream?

While you can use milk, the texture will be less creamy. It's best to stick with heavy cream for authentic crème brûlée.

→ How do I know when the custard is set?

The custard should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven but should not be liquid.