Crème Brûlée Tartlets are the perfect fusion of two beloved desserts—classic crème brûlée and the ever-popular tartlet. This luxurious dessert combines the creamy, velvety custard of a traditional crème brûlée with the delightful crunch of a crisp pastry shell. What’s even better is the signature caramelized sugar topping, which is perfectly set off by a hint of orange zest in the pastry. If you’re looking to create a show-stopping dessert, these tartlets will certainly impress.
In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of creating these decadent Crème Brûlée Tartlets. From the history of this iconic dessert to a detailed list of ingredients, preparation methods, variations, and more—this guide will ensure you have all the tools you need to create these luxurious tartlets at home.
What is Crème Brûlée Tartlets?
A Crème Brûlée Tartlet is a bite-sized version of the classic French dessert, Crème Brûlée. Traditionally, crème brûlée consists of a rich custard base topped with a layer of hard, caramelized sugar. In this recipe, we’re taking the creamy custard filling and placing it inside a delicate, flaky pastry shell. The result is a beautifully balanced dessert with a crisp exterior, creamy interior, and that signature caramelized sugar crunch. It’s an exquisite treat that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful finish to a sophisticated dinner.
The Origin of Crème Brûlée
Crème brûlée is a dessert that has roots in French culinary history. Its name, meaning “burnt cream” in French, reflects the key characteristic of the dish—the crispy, caramelized sugar layer that tops the smooth custard. While its exact origin is a subject of debate, many culinary historians trace its roots back to the 17th century. The earliest known recipes for crème brûlée appear in French cookbooks from this period.
Interestingly, the dish may not have originated in France at all. Some argue that it was first created in England, where a similar dessert was served in the 17th century. However, the French perfected the dish, making it an iconic part of their culinary heritage. Today, crème brûlée remains a beloved dessert worldwide, and with the introduction of Crème Brûlée Tartlets, it’s become an even more accessible and fun treat to make and enjoy.
Ingredients for Crème Brûlée Tartlets (Serves 4)
To make these elegant Crème Brûlée Tartlets, you’ll need the following ingredients. These measurements will serve four individuals, so adjust accordingly if you’re serving a larger group.
For the Pastry:
- 175g plain flour
- 100g cold butter, cubed
- 2 tsp caster sugar
- Zest of ½ orange
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 2 tbsp cold water
Custard Filling:
- 300ml double cream
- 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped
- 3 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
For the Caramel Topping:
- 85g caster sugar
- 3 tbsp water
- Sunflower oil (for greasing tray)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Make the Pastry Shells:
The pastry shell forms the base of your tartlets, and it’s essential to get it just right—crisp, buttery, and perfectly golden.
- Begin by placing the flour and cold butter into a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it becomes crumbly.
- Add the caster sugar and orange zest. Pulse briefly again to incorporate the zest and sugar.
- Next, add the egg yolk mixture (egg yolk beaten with cold water) to the food processor. Pulse until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and line four 8x3cm tartlet tins with the pastry. Press the dough gently into the tins, making sure to cover the base and edges evenly.
- Place the lined tartlet tins into the fridge and chill the pastry for 30 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (170°C fan). Once the pastry is chilled, place baking beans in the tart shells and bake for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove the beans and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to ensure the pastry is fully cooked and golden.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let the tart shells cool completely.
2. Prepare the Custard:
The custard filling is the heart of the crème brûlée tartlets—rich, creamy, and indulgent.
- In a saucepan, heat the double cream with the vanilla pod and seeds. Bring it to a gentle simmer, making sure not to boil the cream. Let the cream infuse for about 5 minutes and then discard the vanilla pod.
- While the cream is infusing, whisk together the egg yolks, whole egg, and caster sugar in a separate bowl.
- Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Once fully combined, strain the custard through a fine sieve into a jug or bowl to remove any curdled bits.
- Pour the custard mixture into the cooled tart shells, dividing it equally among the four tarts.
- Bake the tartlets at 150°C (130°C fan) for 18–22 minutes, or until the custard is just set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
- Let the tartlets cool to room temperature, then place them in the fridge and chill for 30 minutes to fully set.
3. Make the Caramel:
The caramel topping adds the perfect crunchy finish to these tartlets.
- Grease a metal tray lightly with sunflower oil.
- In a small saucepan, combine the caster sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally (do not stir) until the sugar turns deep golden and forms a caramel.
- Pour the caramel onto the prepared tray and let it cool completely.
- Once the caramel has hardened, break it into shards and blitz it in a food processor or blender until it forms fine crystals.
4. Finish the Tartlets:
Now comes the fun part—adding the signature caramelized sugar topping.
- Sprinkle the caramel shards over each tartlet.
- To achieve the classic burnt sugar topping, either gently grill the tartlets or use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar on top.
- Once the sugar has caramelized and the tartlets have cooled slightly, refrigerate them again for a brief moment to set the sugar.
Variations of Crème Brûlée Tartlets
While this recipe provides a classic take on Crème Brûlée Tartlets, there are plenty of ways you can tweak it to suit your taste or to add a fun twist:
- Chocolate Crème Brûlée Tartlets: Add a bit of melted chocolate to the custard mixture for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
- Citrus Infusion: Experiment with other citrus zest in the pastry, such as lemon or lime, for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Berries on Top: Top the custard filling with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries before adding the caramelized sugar.
- Coffee Flavored Custard: Infuse the cream with coffee beans or espresso to give the custard a delightful coffee flavor, perfect for coffee lovers.
FAQs
1. Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tartlet shells and custard filling in advance. However, it’s best to caramelize the sugar just before serving for the freshest, most impressive presentation.
2. Can I use store-bought pastry?
While homemade pastry adds to the authenticity and flavor of the tartlets, store-bought puff or shortcrust pastry can be used in a pinch for convenience.
3. Can I substitute the double cream with a lighter option?
For the richest texture and flavor, double cream is recommended. However, you could substitute it with heavy cream if you prefer a lighter version, although the texture may be slightly less creamy.
4. Can I make these tartlets without a kitchen torch?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can carefully broil the tartlets in the oven for a few seconds under high heat. Just be sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.
Conclusion
Crème Brûlée Tartlets offer a luxurious twist on the classic French dessert, turning an already beloved treat into an elegant bite-sized version. With a crisp pastry shell, creamy custard filling, and a perfectly caramelized sugar topping, these tartlets are guaranteed to impress your guests. Whether you choose to add your own twist with different flavors or stick to the classic recipe, this dessert is sure to become a crowd favorite. Don’t hesitate to try making these tartlets for your next special occasion—they’re worth every step and will certainly leave everyone asking for more.
Print
Crème Brûlée Tartlets: A Luxurious Twist on a Classic French Dessert
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 6 tartlets 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Crème Brûlée Tartlet is a bite-sized version of the classic French dessert, Crème Brûlée. Traditionally, crème brûlée consists of a rich custard base topped with a layer of hard, caramelized sugar. In this recipe, we’re taking the creamy custard filling and placing it inside a delicate, flaky pastry shell. The result is a beautifully balanced dessert with a crisp exterior, creamy interior, and that signature caramelized sugar crunch. It’s an exquisite treat that’s perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful finish to a sophisticated dinner.
Ingredients
For the Pastry:
- 175g plain flour
- 100g cold butter, cubed
- 2 tsp caster sugar
- Zest of ½ orange
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 2 tbsp cold water
For the Custard Filling:
- 300ml double cream
- 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped
- 3 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
For the Caramel Topping:
- 85g caster sugar
- 3 tbsp water
- Sunflower oil (for greasing tray)
Instructions
1. Make the Pastry Shells:
- Pulse flour, salt, and butter in a food processor until crumbly.
- Add sugar and orange zest, pulse briefly.
- Add egg mixture and pulse until dough forms.
- Roll out and line four 8x3cm tartlet tins. Chill for 30 mins.
- Bake at 190°C (170°C fan) for 10–15 mins with baking beans, then remove beans and bake 5–10 mins more. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the Custard:
- Heat cream with vanilla seeds and pod until bubbling at edges. Let infuse for 5 mins, then discard pod.
- Beat eggs and sugar in a bowl, then slowly mix in warm cream.
- Strain mixture and pour into tart shells.
- Bake at 150°C (130°C fan) for 18–22 mins until just set but still wobbly. Chill for 30 mins.
3. Make the Caramel:
- Grease a metal tray with oil.
- Heat sugar and water in a pan without stirring until deep golden.
- Pour onto tray and cool completely.
- Break into shards and blitz into fine crystals.
4. Finish the Tartlets:
- Sprinkle caramel crystals over each tart.
- Grill gently or use a kitchen torch to melt and caramelize the sugar.
- Chill again briefly before serving.
Notes
These Crème Brûlée Tartlets are an elegant twist on the classic dessert. For a flavor boost, try infusing the custard with vanilla bean, orange zest, or even a hint of espresso. They make a perfect make-ahead treat for dinner parties or special occasions!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tartlet
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: High
Keywords: Crème Brûlée Mini Tartlets, Mini Crème Brûlée Tarts, Tartlets with Crème Brûlée filling
