Toasted Vanilla Bean & Bourbon Brûlée

Toasted Vanilla Bean & Bourbon Brûlée Recipe

This Toasted Vanilla Bean & Bourbon Brûlée is a sophisticated dessert that takes the classic crème brûlée to the next level by adding toasted vanilla bean and a splash of bourbon. The combination of flavors creates a creamy, rich custard with a crispy caramelized sugar top that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 2 vanilla beans (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 6 large egg yolks
• ¾ cup granulated sugar, plus extra for caramelizing
• 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional, but highly recommended)
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place 4-6 ramekins (depending on size) in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Vanilla Bean

1. Using a sharp knife, split the vanilla beans lengthwise and scrape out the seeds.
2. In a small pan over medium heat, toast the scraped vanilla bean seeds and the empty pods for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavor. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Custard

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. Add the toasted vanilla bean seeds and pods (if using), and heat the mixture over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and granulated sugar until smooth and pale in color.
3. Gradually pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling). Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vanilla pods.

Step 4: Add Bourbon

1. Stir in the bourbon and a pinch of salt into the custard mixture. This will give the brûlée a subtle, rich depth of flavor.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

1. Pour the custard into the prepared ramekins, dividing it evenly.
2. Pour hot water into the baking dish around the ramekins, ensuring that the water reaches about halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this is called a water bath, which ensures gentle, even cooking).
3. Carefully transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. You can test this by gently tapping the side of a ramekin—it should move as one solid piece.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

1. Once baked, remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool to room temperature.
2. Refrigerate the brûlées for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the custard to fully set.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar

1. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each brûlée.
2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crispy, golden-brown layer. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the ramekins under a broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the brûlées cool for a few minutes after caramelizing the sugar, then serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or mint for an extra touch of freshness.

Why This Toasted Vanilla Bean & Bourbon Brûlée is a Must-Try:

• Elegant and Rich: The toasted vanilla bean and bourbon bring a luxurious depth to the classic brûlée, making this dessert feel extra special.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert at home.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a dinner party, holiday celebration, or a special treat, this brûlée is guaranteed to impress your guests.

Pro Tips:

• Adjust the Bourbon: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the bourbon to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely.
• Torching Sugar: If you’re using a kitchen torch, keep the flame moving and don’t overdo it to avoid burning the sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: If you can’t find fresh vanilla beans, vanilla extract will work, but the flavor may not be as rich. Use 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract instead of the beans.

Perfect Pairings:

• Pair this Toasted Vanilla Bean & Bourbon Brûlée with a glass of dessert wine like Sauternes or a rich coffee to complement the sweet and creamy flavors.
• Serve it alongside chocolate truffles or fresh berries for added texture and variety.