Introduction
There’s something irresistibly indulgent about a perfectly crafted crème brûlée. This classic French dessert features a rich and creamy custard base, complemented by a top layer of caramelized sugar that crackles delightfully as you dig in. When you take that first bite, you’ll experience a wonderful combination of textures and flavors — the velvety custard meets the satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated dinner party or looking for a sweet way to end a cozy meal at home, this overnight crème brûlée recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra granulated sugar for caramelizing
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat over medium heat until it begins to steam, but do not bring it to a boil; you want it just warm enough to melt together beautifully.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened.
- Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously to temper the eggs. This step is crucial to avoid scrambling the yolks and ensures a smooth custard.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract, infusing the mixture with its warm, inviting aroma until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, which will help remove any lumps for that silky texture we crave.
- Evenly divide the custard mixture among individual ramekins, which will make for lovely individual portions.
- Place the filled ramekins in a baking dish and carefully fill the dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins; this water bath will ensure gentle cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 40-45 minutes. The custards will be set but still slightly jiggle in the center — a sign that they’re perfectly cooked.
- Once done, carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. After cooling, refrigerate them for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture.
- When ready to serve, take the chilled ramekins and sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it transforms into a golden, crispy shell. Alternatively, you can place them under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, but watch them closely to avoid burning.
- Allow the crème brûlée to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting that freshly caramelized sugar harden into a delightful crust for a perfect crack!
Notes or Tips
For a unique twist, consider infusing the cream with flavors like espresso, citrus zest, or herbs before mixing it with the egg yolks. Just remember to strain well! Also, if you want to ensure even more creaminess, you can substitute some of the milk with additional heavy cream.
Cooking Techniques
The key to mastering crème brûlée lies in the gentle cooking process of a water bath, also known as a bain-marie. This technique helps regulate the custard’s temperature and prevents the eggs from curdling, leading to that luscious texture we all love. Plus, using a kitchen torch for carmelization allows you to achieve the perfect golden crust without overcooking the custard itself.
FAQ
Can I make crème brûlée ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, it’s best to prepare it the day before serving, as chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What if I don’t have a kitchen torch? No problem! You can caramelize the sugar under a broiler, just remember to keep a close eye on it to catch that perfect color.
How do I know when the custard is done? The key is to ensure it’s set around the edges while still having a slight jiggle in the center — this indicates that it’s creamy and not overcooked.
Conclusion
There you have it — a classic overnight crème brûlée recipe that will surely elevate any occasion. With a creamy custard base, a perfectly caramelized sugar topping, and a touch of love in every bite, it’s hard not to be enchanted by this dessert. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a cherished favorite in your home, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quiet evening in. Happy baking!