Crème brûlée is one of the most indulgent desserts on Carnival Cruise Line’s menu. The creamy vanilla custard topped with a caramelized sugar crust is pure perfection, and now you can recreate it in your kitchen.
This creme brulee recipe is perfect for family gatherings or an at-home evening. My friends have perfected it to get the exact taste and crisp topping that make Carnival’s Crème Brûlée so amazing.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
- Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Room Temperature Eggs: Let your egg yolks sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before mixing to prevent curdling.
- Slowly Temper: Add the warm cream to the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
- Water Bath Trick: Place a towel under the ramekins in the baking dish to keep them from sliding around.
- Caramelize Sugar Gently: Use a small butane torch to caramelize the sugar topping evenly for the perfect crisp layer.
- Chill Well: Ensure the custard is fully chilled before adding the sugar topping and caramelizing.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Fine mesh strainer
- Ramekins (4-6)
- Baking dish
- Small butane torch
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof pitcher
Substitutions and Variations
- Vanilla: Use vanilla bean paste for an even richer flavor with specks of vanilla throughout.
- Sugar-Free: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute for a low-carb version.
- Flavor Variations: Add a splash of orange liqueur or almond extract for a twist.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the custard up to two days in advance and keep it chilled. Caramelize the sugar topping just before serving for the best texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place your ramekins in a deep baking dish.
Step 2: Heat the Cream
Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar
Whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl until pale and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof pitcher.
Step 5: Pour into Ramekins
Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Step 6: Bake
Carefully transfer the baking dish to the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 7: Chill
Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 8: Caramelize the Sugar
Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over each custard. Use a small butane torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Leftovers and Storage
- Store any leftover Crème Brûlée without the sugar topping in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Re-caramelize the sugar just before serving.
Conclusion
This Crème Brûlée recipe brings the elegance and indulgence of Carnival Cruise Line’s dining experience to your home. The creamy custard and crackling sugar topping make every bite unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below and let me know how it turned out for you.
Relate: Carnival’s Warm Chocolate Melting Cake Recipe
