Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée Recipe

If you are looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a dessert that’s both indulgent and sophisticated, this Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée is an absolute must-try. This luscious custard blends the deep, buttery sweetness of caramel with a delicate pinch of sea salt, creating an irresistible balance that dances on your taste buds. Topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust that shatters with every crack, this dessert is not just a feast for the palate but also a joy to present. Every spoonful is silky smooth with a rich, golden hue that promises pure decadence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though the Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée may seem fancy, it actually relies on a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role to bring that silky texture, rich flavor, and elegant look to your dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup sugar: The base for your salted caramel, providing the sweet and slightly burnt notes that define this dish.
• 2 cups cream: Adds lush creaminess and smoothness, essential for a custard to melt in your mouth.
• 4 egg yolks: Responsible for the custard’s silky texture and beautiful golden color.
• 1 tsp vanilla: Enhances depth and warmth, rounding out the caramel’s sweetness.
• Pinch of sea salt: Elevates the caramel flavor and balances sweetness with a subtle savory kick.

How to Make Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée

Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel

Start by heating the sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat until it melts into a golden amber caramel. Be patient and watch carefully to avoid burning—it will transform into a deep, fragrant syrup perfect for your custard. Then, carefully add the cream while stirring, as the mixture will bubble vigorously. This creates the signature salted caramel base that is smooth and bursting with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture

While the caramel cools slightly, whisk the egg yolks in a bowl until smooth and pale. Slowly pour the warm salted caramel cream into the yolks in a thin stream, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Stir in the vanilla and a pinch of sea salt to intensify the complex flavors.

Step 3: Bake the Crème Brûlée

Divide the custard evenly among ramekins and place them in a large baking dish. Pour hot water around the ramekins, coming halfway up their sides, creating a gentle water bath that ensures even cooking without curdling. Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 30 to 35 minutes until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly. This slow bake is key to that creamy, custardy texture.

Step 4: Chill and Caramelize the Top

Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool, then refrigerate for at least two hours, allowing the custard to firm up and the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of sugar over the top and use a kitchen torch to caramelize it until you achieve a glossy, crisp golden crust that cracks beautifully when tapped with a spoon.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée

Garnishes

A classic crème brûlée deserves simple garnishes to highlight its lovely creamy texture and caramel notes. Try fresh berries like raspberries or blackberries for a bright contrast, or a small sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top to enhance that delightful salty-sweet harmony. A sprig of fresh mint adds a splash of color and aromatics that complement the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines best on its own, but if you want to serve it alongside something else, think fresh fruit or a light salad with citrus segments. A small scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a delicate biscotti can also pair beautifully, providing a textural contrast without overpowering the Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée’s luxurious flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of theatre, serve the ramekins on individual wooden boards or elegant plates with a decorative drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce around the edges. Use edible flowers or gold leaf for a stunning visual on special occasions. You might also experiment by turning the caramelized sugar crust into decorative shards to garnish the top or side for an unexpected crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée left after your gathering, cover the ramekins tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The custard will keep its creamy texture and wonderful flavor for up to three days, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert to impress anytime.

Freezing

Because crème brûlée relies on its smooth custard texture, freezing is not recommended. Ice crystal formation can alter the consistency, making it grainy and less enjoyable. It’s best savored fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled, so if you prefer, you can allow it to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. If you must reheat, warm it gently to avoid curdling—use a low-temperature water bath, but avoid long heating times whenever possible.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of cream for this recipe?

Milk won’t provide the same rich, velvety texture as cream, which is essential to the classic silky feel of Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée. Cream’s higher fat content creates that luxurious mouthfeel that makes this dessert so special.

How do I know when the custard is done baking?

The custard is done when the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly when you gently shake the ramekin. It will firm up as it cools and chills in the fridge, so err on the side of slight under-baking to avoid a rubbery texture.

Can I use a regular oven if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

If you don’t have a torch, you can place the ramekins under a very hot broiler for a minute or two to caramelize the sugar. Keep a close eye on them so the sugar melts evenly without burning.

What kind of sugar is best for the caramelized topping?

Granulated white sugar is typically used for the top crust because it caramelizes evenly and crisply under high heat. You want a fine, even layer for that signature crackling crust.

Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?

Traditional Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée relies heavily on eggs and cream, but you can experiment with coconut cream and plant-based egg alternatives. Keep in mind, the texture and flavor will differ, though it can still be delicious!

Final Thoughts

Making Salted Caramel Crème Brûlée at home is such a rewarding experience that brings a touch of gourmet elegance to any occasion. Its creamy custard infused with salted caramel sweetness and topped with a luxurious crackling sugar crust is truly unforgettable. Once you master this recipe, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite, whether for special celebrations or indulgent weeknight treats. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy every luscious spoonful!