Classic French Custard Dessert

A traditional French dessert featuring a rich and creamy vanilla custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. Perfectly balanced in sweetness, it offers a luxurious finale to any meal.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream

1 vanilla bean, split and scraped

5 large egg yolks

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and the scraped vanilla bean seeds with the pod, and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 1/2 cup of sugar until pale and well combined.

4. Gradually add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to temper the eggs.

5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove the vanilla pod and any egg solids.

6. Pour the mixture into 6 ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the baking dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

8. Remove ramekins from the water bath and cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.

9. Just before serving, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar evenly over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crisp.

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

For best results, do not reheat. Enjoy cold.

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This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.