When it comes to impressing your guests, there’s no dessert quite like crème brûlée. The rich, creamy custard base, the caramelized sugar crust, and the anticipation of that first spoonful all combine to create a truly unforgettable experience. But why settle for just one flavor when you can have 18? From classic vanilla bean to creative twists like lavender honey and matcha green tea, we’ve rounded up the most decadent crème brûlée recipes perfect for entertaining.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of crème brûlée, sharing our favorite recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to a little indulgence, these 18 decadent crème brûlée recipes have got you covered.
Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert featuring a velvety vanilla bean custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cream and vanilla bean; whisk until combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
5. Strain custard into a clean bowl to remove vanilla bean solids.
6. Pour into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Lavender Honey Crème Brûlée
Lavender Honey Crème Brûlée Recipe
Experience the sweet and soothing combination of lavender and honey in this decadent crème brûlée dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– 2 tbsp (30g) honey
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add lavender buds, honey, and heavy cream. Whisk until well combined.
4. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Strain mixture into a clean bowl to remove lavender buds.
6. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes. Place in a large baking dish and add enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Espresso Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this indulgent treat that combines the deep flavors of chocolate, espresso, and caramelized sugar. Perfect for coffee lovers and chocoholics alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly whipped heavy cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved and mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and cocoa powder. Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the warm cream mixture while whisking constantly.
4. Stir in espresso powder and vanilla extract.
5. Pour into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Serve:
1. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
2. Caramelize the sugar by using a kitchen torch to carefully burn the surface, or place under the broiler for a few seconds.
3. Serve chilled, topped with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Crème Brûlée
This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the rich creaminess of crème brûlée, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter.
4. Temper the egg yolk mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Crème Brûlée
Elevate the classic crème brûlée with the subtle bitterness and astringency of matcha green tea, creating a unique and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp matcha powder (preferably ceremonial or premium)
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Sugar, for caramelizing
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Remove from heat and whisk in matcha powder until dissolved. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the tea flavors to infuse.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter. Temper the egg yolk mixture by gradually adding the warm cream mixture, whisking constantly.
- Pour the mixture into 4 ramekins or small baking dishes. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Prior to serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each ramekin. Caramelize the sugar by using a kitchen torch or placing under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée
Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée Recipe
A rich and creamy dessert infused with the deep flavors of salted caramel, topped with a crunchy caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
5. Strain into a clean bowl and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool to room temperature; cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, drizzle with salted caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (plus chilling time)
Orange Zest Crème Brûlée
This creamy dessert gets a burst of citrus flavor from freshly grated orange zest, adding a delightful twist to the traditional crème brûlée.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale.
3. Add heavy cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in grated orange zest and salt.
5. Pour mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and rich Coconut Milk Crème Brûlée, infused with the warmth of caramelized sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, unsweetened shredded coconut, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
4. Whisk in egg yolks until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this unique twist on the classic crème brûlée. The combination of creamy custard, sweet raspberries, and caramelized sugar is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh raspberries, pureed
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pureed raspberries.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle sugar over the top of each ramekin.
10. Caramelize sugar with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chai Spiced Crème Brûlée
This creamy dessert combines the spices of traditional Indian chai with the rich flavors of crème brûlée. The perfect treat for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/8 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/8 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground black tea (or chai mix)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Add heavy cream, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black tea; whisk until combined.
4. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each ramekin.
9. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Vanilla Crème Brûlée
Rich and creamy crème brûlée infused with the smooth flavors of bourbon and vanilla, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for caramelization)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon whiskey.
5. Strain the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Lemon Curd Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing take on crème brûlée, infused with the brightness of lemon curd.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– Freshly grated lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and melted butter.
3. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in freshly grated lemon zest (if using).
5. Strain into ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pistachio Crème Brûlée
This elegant dessert combines the richness of crème brûlée with the nutty flavor of pistachios, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 large egg yolks
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and milk. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pistachios, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Strain mixture into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blueberry Basil Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and flavorful twist on the classic crème brûlée, featuring sweet blueberries and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup fresh blueberries, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
3. Add the heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped blueberries and basil leaves.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until set.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Crème Brûlée
Elevate the classic crème brûlée by infusing it with the warmth of gingerbread spices. This unique dessert combines the comforting flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg with the creamy richness of custard.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed gingerbread cookies (about 6-8 cookies)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, melted butter, and spices.
3. Add heavy cream and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crushed gingerbread cookies.
5. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a layer of sugar over the top of each crème brûlée and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rose Water Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this exotic and elegant Rose Water Crème Brûlée, infused with the sweet fragrance of rose petals.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rose water
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, cream, sugar, and rose water until well combined.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
5. Strain the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until set but still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
11. Caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Crème Brûlée
Elevate your crème brûlée game with a shot of espresso and the creamy richness of tiramisu. This unique dessert combines the best of both worlds, featuring a velvety custard base infused with coffee liqueur and topped with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
– 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional)
– Freshly whipped heavy cream and caramelized sugar for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
3. Add brewed coffee or espresso and coffee liqueur (if using). Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add heavy cream while whisking until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into 6-8 ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each crème brûlée. Caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond Amaretto Crème Brûlée
This decadent dessert combines the smoothness of crème brûlée with the nutty flavor of almonds and the warmth of amaretto. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons almond extract
– 2 ounces amaretto liqueur
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow.
3. Add heavy cream, sliced almonds, almond extract, and amaretto; whisk until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into 6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin.
9. Caramelize the sugar by broiling for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these decadent crème brûlée recipes! From classic vanilla bean to unique flavors like lavender honey and matcha green tea, there’s something for every taste. These creamy desserts are perfect for entertaining, with a caramelized sugar topping adding an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, these 18 crème brûlée recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen!
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