Easy No-Bake Crème Brûlée

Easy No-Bake Crème Brûlée

4 servings
This elegant and impressive no-bake crème brûlée is easy enough to make at home.

Ingredients

  • heavy whipping cream
    1 c
  • whole milk
    ½ c
  • granulated sugar
    ½ c
  • vanilla bean)

    , split lengthwise (see Notes

    1
  • egg yolks
    4 large
  • cornstarch
    2 tbsp
  • Additional granulated sugar

    , for the caramelized topping

Directions

  1. 1

    In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk and sugar. Use a sharp knife to scrape the vanilla beans from the pod and add to the saucepan. Place over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Heat just until bubbles appear at the edges and mixture is steaming (do not bring to a boil).

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch in a medium bowl. Add the hot cream mixture in a slow steady stream while whisking constantly.

  3. 3

    Pour mixture back into the saucepan and return to medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a spatula to scrape the bottom, until mixture just comes to a boil and thickens. This will take 3-5 minutes, increase heat if needed. Once thickened, cook for an additional 1 minute, while continuing to stir.

  4. 4

    Remove from heat and pass custard through a mesh strainer to remove any lumps (mixture may seem grainy, but don't worry the end result is smooth and creamy). Spoon into individual ramekins or bowls and spread into an even layer. Place in the fridge uncovered (so steam doesn't get trapped and create condensation) to set up completely, at least 2 hours.

  5. 5

    When ready to serve, sprinkle the tops generously with granulated sugar.

  6. 6

    To caramelize with a kitchen torch (recommended): Work with one at a time, passing the torch evenly over the surface until the sugar melts and caramelizes. This takes less than a minute per serving.

  7. 7

    To use an oven broiler instead: Place the oven rack on the highest setting, put the ramekins directly under the broiler, and set it on high. Wait for the sugar to melt and caramelize, rotating the ramekins as necessary for even browning. This can take up to 5 minutes. Watch so they don't burn.

  8. 8

    Serve immediately and enjoy!

Easy No-Bake Crème Brûlée

Easy No-Bake Crème Brûlée

140 min4 servings393 cal

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About this Recipe

Indulge in Easy Elegance: Your New Favorite No-Bake Crème Brûlée

Dreaming of that classic, creamy crème brûlée but intimidated by the oven and water baths? Get ready to transform your dessert game with this incredible Easy No-Bake Crème Brûlée! This recipe delivers all the rich, velvety custard and satisfying caramelized sugar crunch you crave, without ever needing to turn on your oven. It's truly an elegant dessert that's simple enough for any home cook.

What makes this no-bake crème brûlée so special? It's all about that luscious, smooth texture achieved by carefully cooking the custard on the stovetop. We infuse the cream and milk with a real vanilla bean for an unparalleled depth of flavor, making each spoonful an absolute delight. The combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and egg yolks creates a wonderfully rich dessert that feels incredibly gourmet.

Tips for a Perfect No-Bake Crème Brûlée

While this homemade crème brûlée is easy, a few tips will ensure perfection:

  • Tempering is Key: Gently warm your egg yolks with a bit of the hot cream mixture to prevent scrambling. This creates that silky smooth texture.
  • Constant Stirring: When cooking the custard, stir continuously to avoid lumps and ensure even thickening.
  • The Caramelized Top: The iconic crack of crème brûlée comes from torching granulated sugar until it melts and hardens. Don't rush this step for the best results.

Delicious Variations & Serving Suggestions

This easy crème brûlée is fantastic on its own, but feel free to get creative:

  • Citrus Zest: Add a strip of orange or lemon zest to the cream mixture while it simmers for a bright, aromatic twist.
  • Coffee Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the warm cream for a coffee-flavored custard.
  • Fresh Berries: Serve chilled crème brûlée with a side of fresh raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries for a burst of freshness. A sprig of mint also adds a beautiful garnish.

Impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth with this truly delightful and surprisingly simple no-bake crème brûlée.

Frequently Asked Questions