Matcha Creme Brûlée Recipe

If you are a fan of elegant desserts that bring a touch of sophistication and a burst of unique flavor, the Matcha Creme Brûlée will quickly become one of your favorites. This luscious green tea custard boasts a silky smooth texture and a rich but well-balanced flavor, thanks to the delicate earthiness of matcha paired with the classic creamy sweetness of traditional crème brûlée. With only four simple ingredients, it’s an effortlessly classy dessert that you can prepare ahead of time to impress guests or treat yourself to a luxurious finale after any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though the ingredient list for this Matcha Creme Brûlée is refreshingly short, each item plays a crucial role in building the rich, velvety texture and distinct green tea flavor that makes this dessert so special.

• Heavy cream (2½ cups): The foundation for the custard’s creamy, smooth mouthfeel.
• Culinary grade matcha (4 teaspoons): Brings vibrant color and the signature earthy, slightly bitter notes to balance the sweetness.
• Large egg yolks (4): Provide structure and richness, essential for that custard consistency.
• Granulated sugar (5 tablespoons plus extra): Sweetens the custard and creates the iconic caramelized topping.

How to Make Matcha Creme Brûlée

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F while preparing a hot water bath. This gentle baking method is key to achieving the perfect custard texture without curdling or overcooking.

Step 2: Infuse the Cream with Matcha

Heat 2 cups of the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Meanwhile, whisk the matcha powder into the remaining ½ cup of cream until completely smooth and lump-free. When the cream starts to show tiny bubbles just below boiling, remove it from heat and stir in the matcha mixture thoroughly. This step ensures every bite has that smooth, earthy matcha flavor.

Step 3: Create the Custard Base

In a heatproof bowl, vigorously whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until smooth and pale. Slowly drizzle the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously to temper the eggs and prevent scrambling. For an extra silky texture, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a pouring container.

Step 4: Bake in a Water Bath

Arrange four 8-ounce ramekins in a deep baking pan. Pour the custard evenly into each ramekin, then carefully pour hot water into the pan halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for about 30 minutes until the custards are set but still gently wobble in the center—a telltale sign of perfectly creamy custard.

Step 5: Chill and Caramelize

Remove the ramekins from the water bath and cool them at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, sprinkle each surface evenly with granulated sugar. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp, forming the signature brûlée crust that cracks delightfully with each spoonful.

How to Serve Matcha Creme Brûlée

Garnishes

The subtle green tea flavor pairs beautifully with delicate garnishes like fresh berries, which add a pop of color and brightness, or a few mint leaves for a refreshing aroma. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a small edible flower to enhance the visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This Matcha Creme Brûlée is a stellar finale on its own but makes an elegant companion to light sides such as a crisp citrus salad or a citrus sorbet, which provide a zingy contrast to the dessert’s creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, try serving the dessert in clear glass ramekins to showcase the beautiful green custard topped with the caramelized sugar crust. You can also layer it with matcha-infused whipped cream or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Matcha Creme Brûlée keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover each ramekin tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to prevent the custard from absorbing fridge odors and to maintain its silky texture.

Freezing

While freezing can impact the crème brûlée’s delicate texture, you can carefully freeze it without the caramelized sugar topping. Thaw overnight in the fridge and brûlée the sugar fresh before serving for best results.

Reheating

To maintain the custard’s smooth texture, serve Matcha Creme Brûlée chilled or bring it to room temperature for a few minutes before adding the caramelized sugar crust. Avoid reheating in the oven or microwave to prevent curdling.

FAQs

Can I use regular green tea powder instead of culinary grade matcha?

Regular green tea powder is usually too coarse and bitter for desserts. Culinary grade matcha has the fine texture and delicate flavor perfect for Matcha Creme Brûlée, so it’s best to stick with that for an optimal taste and smooth texture.

How do I know when the custard is perfectly baked?

The custard should be set around the edges but still gently jiggle slightly in the center when you gently shake the ramekin. It will continue to set as it chills, so take it out a little before it feels completely firm.

What if my sugar topping gets burnt?

If you accidentally burn the sugar, don’t worry! You can simply scrape off the burnt layer and sprinkle fresh sugar to caramelize again. Keep a careful eye on it during caramelizing to prevent burning.

Can I prepare this dessert without a kitchen torch?

Absolutely! You can caramelize the sugar under a broiler. Place the ramekins on a baking sheet under the broiler and watch very closely, as sugar can burn quickly. Rotate as needed for even caramelization.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

This traditional recipe uses heavy cream and egg yolks, which are difficult to replace without losing the custard’s signature texture. However, experimenting with coconut cream and egg substitutes may work, but results may vary and require recipe adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Making Matcha Creme Brûlée at home is not only a rewarding experience but also a way to bring a touch of luxury and unique flavor to your dessert table. Its simple ingredients, elegant presentation, and the delightfully rich taste of matcha make it a surefire hit whether for special occasions or simply indulging your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy texture and green tea goodness!