Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Chocolate Crème BrĂ»lĂ©e — a rich and creamy custard infused with premium dark chocolate, topped with a perfectly crisp caramelized sugar crust. This elegant dessert looks fancy but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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🍮 Velvety smooth chocolate custard
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🍫 Made with real dark chocolate
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🔥 Classic crackly brûléed sugar top
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đź’Ż Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or romantic dinners
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👩🍳 Beginner-friendly with step-by-step instructions
đź“‹ Ingredients
For the Custard:
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2 cups heavy cream
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100g dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa), finely chopped
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5 large egg yolks
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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A pinch of salt
For the Brûlée Topping:
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4 tablespoons granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
🍽️ Equipment You’ll Need
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Ramekins (4 to 6 depending on size)
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Baking dish (for water bath)
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Saucepan
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Fine mesh sieve
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Kitchen torch (for caramelizing)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cream
In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then whisk until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Whisk the Yolks
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until pale and creamy.
Step 4: Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour the warm chocolate cream into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.
Step 5: Strain and Pour
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits. Divide evenly among the ramekins.
Step 6: Water Bath Bake
Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish around the ramekins (about halfway up the sides). Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the centers are just set but still slightly wobbly.
Step 7: Chill
Remove ramekins from the water bath. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 8: Brûlée the Tops
Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. Let it rest for 1–2 minutes before serving.
🍷 Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled with fresh berries, mint leaves, or a small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or espresso.
đź’ˇ Expert Tips
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Use quality chocolate for the best flavor.
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Always strain the custard for a silky texture.
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Don’t skip the water bath – it ensures even, gentle baking.
❓ FAQs
Can I make Chocolate Crème Brûlée ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the custard up to 2 days ahead. Just brûlée the top right before serving.
What if I don’t have a torch?
You can use your oven broiler—place ramekins under the broiler on high heat for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try full-fat coconut milk, but the texture will vary slightly.