Single Serve Crème Brûlée Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect balance of creamy custard with a crisp caramelized topping, this Single Serve Crème Brûlée Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. It’s a classic French dessert made incredibly simple and tailored for one, so you get all the luxurious decadence without any fuss or leftovers. The magic lies in its rich, velvety texture paired with that satisfyingly crackling sugar crust, making every spoonful feel like a special occasion. Trust me, once you’ve tried this recipe, you’ll want to whip it up again and again for a cozy treat at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

As much as crème brûlée tastes decadent, the ingredients list stays wonderfully simple, highlighting just the essentials needed to create that perfectly rich custard and crackling sugar top. Each component plays a starring role, from the luscious heavy cream adding body to the egg yolk providing that silky texture, and vanilla bean paste transforming the flavor with aromatic warmth.

• Heavy cream (113 g): This is the heart of the custard, lending richness and a luscious mouthfeel.
• Granulated sugar (18 g + extra): Used both in the custard for sweetness and later for the signature caramelized topping.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances flavor by balancing sweetness and deepening the custard’s complexity.
• Egg yolk (1): Gives the custard its creamy texture and helps it set to that perfect consistency.
• Vanilla bean paste (1/4 tsp): Adds an intense vanilla flavor with beautiful flecks that make the dessert extra special.

How to Make Single Serve Crème Brûlée Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, prepare a pot of boiling water, which will be used to create a gentle water bath for baking the custard evenly without cracking or curdling.

Step 2: Heat the Cream

In a small saucepan over low to medium heat, slowly bring the heavy cream to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit, or just before it boils. Stir frequently to prevent a skin from forming and ensure the heat distributes evenly for the silkiest texture.

Step 3: Whisk Egg and Sugar

While the cream heats, whisk together the granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and the egg yolk in a small bowl until the sugar is almost dissolved and the mixture flows smoothly off the whisk. This step sets the base for a silky custard.

Step 4: Temper the Eggs

Slowly pour the hot cream into the egg mixture in a thin stream while whisking vigorously. This tempering prevents the egg yolk from cooking prematurely and turning lumpy, keeping the custard smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Strain

Once fully combined, stir in the vanilla bean paste for that irresistible aroma and speckled look. Then, pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a small ramekin or mini cocotte to remove any cooked egg bits and ensure a silky custard.

Step 6: Bake in Water Bath

Place the ramekin in a baking dish and pour boiling water halfway up the sides of the custard container. This gentle cooking method helps the custard bake evenly and prevents cracking. Bake for about 26 to 30 minutes until the custard is just set but still slightly jiggly in the center—this guarantees that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 7: Cool and Chill

Remove the ramekin from the water bath carefully and let it cool to room temperature, around 2 hours. Then refrigerate uncovered for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. Chilling firms up the custard, readying it for that iconic caramelized sugar topping.

Step 8: Caramelize the Sugar

When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until it forms a hard, shiny crust. Let it sit a minute for the topping to harden, then dive in and enjoy!

How to Serve Single Serve Crème Brûlée Recipe

Garnishes

A simple crème brûlée is already divine on its own, but a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor. Consider adding a handful of fresh berries, a sprig of mint, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pop of color and contrasting freshness against the rich custard.

Side Dishes

Because crème brûlée is pleasantly rich and sweet, serving it alongside light, crisp options works beautifully. A small bowl of macerated berries, a delicate biscotti, or a scoop of sharp sorbet can provide complementary textures and flavors, making the whole experience even more memorable.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of the classic ramekin, try using elegant glass jars or mini cast iron skillets for rustic charm. You can also drizzle a flavored syrup like espresso or lavender under the custard before baking to add subtle notes that surprise the palate. For gatherings, presenting individual brûlées on beautiful plates with edible flowers adds that wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, cover the ramekin tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and keep it refrigerated. The custard will stay fresh for up to 3 days, although the crispy brûlée top is best enjoyed immediately after torching.

Freezing

Freezing crème brûlée isn’t generally recommended because the custard’s delicate texture can become grainy and watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days chilled in the fridge.

Reheating

Since crème brûlée is typically served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. If you want to refresh the caramelized topping for a next-day serving, sprinkle a fresh layer of sugar and briefly torch it again to revive that satisfyingly crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Absolutely! While vanilla bean paste gives a more intense flavor and speckled look, pure vanilla extract can be used as a convenient substitute. Use about half a teaspoon and add it with the cream during tempering for lovely vanilla notes.

Why is my custard watery or too soft?

The custard may be underbaked or have excess moisture if the baking time or temperature isn’t right. Make sure to bake it in a water bath and test for a slight jiggle in the center; it should set upon cooling and chilling.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can caramelize the sugar under a preheated broiler by placing the ramekin on the top rack and watching carefully until the sugar bubbles and browns. Keep the oven door slightly open and don’t step away to avoid burning.

How long does it take to make this dessert?

Active preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, but the custard needs to bake for around 30 minutes and chill for several hours or overnight to properly set. Planning ahead ensures perfect results.

Can I make this recipe for more than one serving?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want and divide the custard evenly among multiple ramekins. Each should bake in a water bath until just set.

Final Thoughts

This Single Serve Crème Brûlée Recipe is pure magic for anyone craving a dessert that feels fancy but is incredibly simple to make. Its creamy custard, fragrant vanilla, and that satisfying crack of burnt sugar create a moment of indulgence that’s hard to beat. Whether it’s a special occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, I promise this recipe will become a cherished favorite in your dessert repertoire. Give it a go and savor every luscious bite!

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