Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Extra granulated sugar for topping
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk, and heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is pale and frothy. Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
Once the two mixtures are fully combined, pour the mixture into four ramekins or custard cups. Place the ramekins in a baking dish and fill the dish with enough hot water to reach about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake the custards for about 35-40 minutes, or until they are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Remove the ramekins from the baking dish and let them cool to room temperature, then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, sprinkle about a teaspoon of granulated sugar over the top of each custard and use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it's golden brown and crispy.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it - a simple yet decadent creme brulee recipe that's sure to impress your guests. Serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch. Bon appétit!