Coffee Crème Brûlée Recipe

Coffee Crème Brûlée offers a delightful twist on the traditional French dessert. This recipe combines the silky, creamy texture of classic crème brûlée with the bold, rich flavor of coffee, creating a dessert that’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts. The caramelized sugar crust adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite a harmonious blend of smooth custard and crisp topping. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to a special treat, Coffee Crème Brûlée is sure to impress.

What is a Coffee Crème Brûlée?

Crème brûlée is a classic French dessert known for its creamy, custard-like base topped with a layer of hardened caramelized sugar. Traditionally, it is flavored with vanilla, creating a rich and luxurious treat that melts in your mouth.

Coffee Crème Brûlée adds a modern twist to this beloved dessert by infusing the custard with the deep, aromatic flavors of coffee. This addition transforms the classic recipe, offering a sophisticated blend of sweetness and a slight bitterness that coffee lovers will appreciate.

The unique flavor profile of Coffee Crème Brûlée combines the smooth, velvety texture of the custard with the robust, earthy notes of coffee. The caramelized sugar topping provides a delightful contrast, adding a crisp layer that complements the creamy base. This fusion creates a dessert that is both indulgent and refreshing, perfect for those who enjoy the richness of traditional crème brûlée with an added coffee kick.

Coffee Crème Brûlée Recipe

Recipe by Matt Simmons

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

A rich and creamy custard infused with coffee, topped with a caramelized sugar crust.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1/2 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping

• 5 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 tablespoons instant coffee or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

• Pinch salt

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
• In a saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and coffee. Heat until steaming but not boiling.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
• Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to combine.
• Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large measuring cup.
• Pour the custard into ramekins, filling them about 3/4 full.
• Place the ramekins in a baking dish and add hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
• Before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown.
• Let the sugar crust harden for a minute before serving.

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Ramekins
• Fine Mesh Strainer
• Large Measuring Cup
• Baking Sheet
• Kitchen Torch

Notes

• Use high-quality coffee for the best flavor.
• Be careful not to overheat the cream mixture to avoid curdling.
• Ensure the custard mixture is well-strained to achieve a smooth texture.
• For a different flavor, try using espresso or flavored coffee.
• Chill the custards thoroughly before caramelizing the sugar for the best results.
• Use an even layer of sugar on top to ensure uniform caramelization.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 28g
• Sugar: 18g

Conclusion

Coffee Crème Brûlée combines the classic elegance of a traditional French dessert with the rich, bold flavors of coffee, making it a must-try for coffee lovers. The creamy custard and crisp caramelized sugar create a delightful contrast that is sure to impress. We encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with different coffee varieties or flavors to make it your own. Share your experiences and any variations you try—we’d love to hear your feedback and see how you enjoy this delicious dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use decaffeinated coffee for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer. It will still provide the rich coffee flavor without the caffeine.
2. What type of sugar should I use for the caramelized topping?
   • Granulated sugar works best for the caramelized topping. It melts evenly and creates a crisp, caramelized crust.
3. Can I make Coffee Crème Brûlée ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the custards a day in advance. Keep them refrigerated and caramelize the sugar just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
4. What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch?
   • If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the custards under a broiler for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning the sugar.
5. Why is my custard not setting properly?
   • If your custard is not setting, it might need more baking time. Ensure the water bath is hot enough, and bake until the custards are just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.