Crème Brûlée with Berries

Name: Crème Brûlée with Berries
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste; 5 egg yolks; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing); Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries); Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Golden Food

I absolutely adore making Crème Brûlée with Berries, as it allows me to combine the rich, creamy custard with the vibrant freshness of seasonal fruits. Each spoonful delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. The process of torching the sugar topping is incredibly satisfying, creating that perfect crackle that is simply irresistible. This dessert never fails to impress my guests, adding a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Created by

Elin Matthews

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:38:47.828Z

When I first attempted making Crème Brûlée, I was thrilled but also intimidated by the precision it required. I learned that using a thermometer for the custard mixture ensured that I achieved the perfect texture. A trial and error phase where I tested various vanilla beans made me realize how even a subtle difference in flavor enhances the final product.

Using mixed berries not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing tartness that beautifully complements the rich custard. The burnt sugar on top should be done just right—under-torching leads to a soft top while over-torching results in bitterness, so watching like a hawk is key.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich vanilla custard topped with a satisfying caramelized sugar layer
Fresh berries add a vibrant twist, enhancing flavor and presentation
The dramatic crack of the sugar crust provides a delightful experience with each spoonful

The Science Behind the Custard

Creating the perfect custard relies heavily on the right balance of ingredients and cooking techniques. The heavy cream contributes to the luxurious texture, while the egg yolks provide the necessary emulsification and thickening. When heating the cream, it should be brought to a simmer, not a boil, as boiling can lead to curdling. Look for steam rising and small bubbles forming around the edges before combining it with the yolks.

Tempering the eggs is crucial in preventing them from scrambling. By slowly incorporating the hot cream into the mixture while whisking continuously, you gradually raise the temperature of the yolks without cooking them too quickly. This method ensures a smooth, creamy custard free of lumps, allowing for that sought-after velvety finish in your Crème Brûlée.

Caramelizing the Sugar

Achieving the perfect caramelized sugar crust requires attention to detail. When sprinkling the sugar, aim for an even, thin layer to promote even melting. If the layer is too thick, it may not caramelize properly, leading to a chewy texture instead of the desired crispness. A small, culinary torch is your best tool for this task, as it provides precise control over the heat distribution.

After torching, a brief cooling period allows the sugar to harden into a satisfying shell, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard beneath. If you don't have a torch, placing the ramekins under a broiler can work in a pinch; just ensure you watch them closely to avoid burning the sugar and ruining the dessert.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Crème Brûlée with Berries.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
5 egg yolks
1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
Fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Pinch of salt

With your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the steps for preparation.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for perfect Crème Brûlée.

Prepare the Custard

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream and vanilla bean paste over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined. Slowly pour the hot cream into the yolk mixture while whisking to temper the eggs. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a pouring jug.

Bake the Custard

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place four ramekins in a baking dish and fill them with the custard mixture. Fill the baking dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly jiggly. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Caramelize the Sugar

Once the custards are chilled, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it forms a crisp, golden crust. Let sit for a few minutes to harden the topping.

Serve with Berries

Garnish each Crème Brûlée with a handful of fresh berries before serving. Enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors with each bite.

Your delicious Crème Brûlée is now ready to impress family and friends!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use high-quality vanilla for the best flavor in your custard. If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can place the ramekins under a broiler for a couple of minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Crème Brûlée can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for entertaining. Prepare the custard up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop further. Just remember, the sugar crust should be caramelized right before serving to maintain its texture and crunch.

Leftover Crème Brûlée can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but be mindful that the sugar topping will soften over time. If you're serving guests, plan to store any excess without the sugar layer, and caramelize fresh sugar for optimal texture when serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the classic Crème Brûlée is divine on its own, enhancing it with seasonal fresh berries elevates both visual appeal and flavor. Consider serving strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries on the side, or even mixing them into the custard before baking for an integrated burst of flavor. A sprinkle of mint leaves can also add a refreshing touch.

For a delightful twist, experiment with flavors in the custard. Infusing the heavy cream with citrus zest or using flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, can create a unique take on this classic dessert. Remember to adjust the sugar levels slightly if using sweeter flavorings to maintain balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Crème Brûlée ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard a day in advance and caramelize the sugar just before serving.

→ What can I use instead of fresh berries?

You can substitute fresh berries with other fruits like sliced kiwi, peaches, or even chocolate shavings.

→ Is it necessary to strain the custard mixture?

Straining removes any cooked egg bits and results in a smoother texture, so it's highly recommended.

→ How do I store leftover Crème Brûlée?

Cover the ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Consume within 2-3 days for the best quality.