Description
Earl Grey Crème Brûlée is a fusion of two beloved culinary creations: the traditional French crème brûlée and the aromatic, distinctive flavor of Earl Grey tea. Crème brûlée, which translates to “burnt cream” in French, is a rich custard dessert that’s typically made from heavy cream, egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla, with a crispy caramelized sugar topping. When infused with Earl Grey tea, the dessert takes on a delightful, citrusy fragrance from the tea’s blend of black tea, bergamot, and hints of lavender.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (500 ml) heavy cream
- 2–3 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 tsp loose-leaf Earl Grey tea)
- 5 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Infuse the Cream
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to steam (do not boil).
- Add the Earl Grey tea bags or loose-leaf tea. Remove from heat, cover, and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the cream if using loose-leaf tea, and discard the tea bags or leaves. Let the infused cream cool slightly.
- Prepare the Custard
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and pale.
- Gradually whisk the warm (not hot) infused cream into the egg mixture. Do this slowly to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Bake the Crème Brûlée
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
- Divide the mixture evenly among 4-6 ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in a large baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a water bath).
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Caramelize the Sugar
- Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard.
- Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, crispy top. (Alternatively, place the ramekins under a broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.)
- Allow the sugar to cool and harden for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Notes
For an extra touch of elegance, serve with a dollop of lightly whipped cream and a sprinkle of edible lavender or fresh berries. You can also infuse the cream longer for a stronger Earl Grey flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Keywords: Earl Grey Crème Brûlée Recipe