Quick Description
This creamy custard bake has all the dreamy flavor of classic crème brûlée in an easy scoopable dessert form. It is silky, rich, vanilla-forward, and topped with a crackly caramelized sugar layer that gives you that signature brûlée finish in every bite.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 40 to 50 minutes
- Chill Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: About 5 hours
Ingredients List
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
For the brûlée topping
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup granulated sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the oven and dish
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar small casserole dish.
2. Heat the cream mixture
In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Heat until hot but not boiling. Stir in the vanilla extract and remove from the heat.
3. Whisk the custard base
In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, sugar, and salt until smooth and slightly pale.
4. Temper the eggs
Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture a little at a time, whisking constantly so the eggs do not scramble.
5. Strain for a smooth texture
Pour the custard through a fine mesh strainer into another bowl or large measuring cup. This helps make the final dessert extra silky.
6. Bake
Pour the custard into the prepared baking dish. Place the baking dish into a larger pan and carefully add hot water to the outer pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the baking dish.
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center still has a slight jiggle.
7. Cool and chill
Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours, or until fully chilled.
8. Brûlée the top
Right before serving, sprinkle a thin even layer of granulated sugar over the top. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until deep golden and crisp.
If you do not have a torch, place the dish under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes very carefully, watching closely so it does not burn.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled with fresh berries
- Add a little whipped cream if you want it extra fancy
- A small pinch of flaky salt on top can make the flavor pop
Storage
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- For best texture, brûlée the sugar topping only right before serving
Tips & Variations
- Use a real vanilla bean instead of extract for a more bakery-style flavor
- Add a little orange zest for a citrus twist
- For a deeper flavor, replace 2 tablespoons of sugar in the custard with light brown sugar
- Do not overbake or the custard can turn rubbery
