Crème Brûlée with Berries

Name: Crème Brûlée with Berries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 5 large egg yolks; 1/4 cup extra granulated sugar (for caramelizing); 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries); 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Food

I've always had a deep appreciation for desserts that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. When I first attempted making Crème Brûlée with Berries, I was captivated by how the creamy custard pairs so perfectly with the tartness of fresh berries. The satisfying crack of the caramelized sugar crust was an added bonus that made the experience even more delightful. It’s a masterpiece that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion, and I can’t wait for you to try it yourself!

Created by

Cleo Winter

Last updated on 2026-01-08T16:17:37.421Z

My first attempt at making Crème Brûlée was an adventure filled with trial and error. I learned that achieving the perfect custard requires a gentle heat to prevent curdling, and that using a kitchen torch is the secret to a chef-quality caramelized top. The first time I heard that satisfying crack when I tapped the sugar crust with a spoon, I knew I was onto something special.

Combining the creamy texture of the custard with the burst of freshness from seasonal berries adds a delightful twist to this classic dessert. I recommend serving it chilled with a side of berries to elevate the experience. It's not just a dessert; it’s a moment to savor!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich vanilla flavor enhanced by fresh berries
Decadent, creamy custard with a crispy sugar top
Impressive enough for special occasions, yet easy enough for a weeknight treat

      

The Perfect Custard Texture

Achieving the ideal custard texture is key for a successful Crème Brûlée. You want the final product to be silky and smooth, with a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the ramekin. This means baking at a lower temperature (325°F/160°C) is essential to allow the egg yolks to set gently without curdling. Keep an eye on the baking time; overcooking can lead to a grainy texture, so begin checking around the 30-minute mark. The edges should be set, while the center remains creamy.

Using a heavy cream is essential for that rich mouthfeel. The higher fat content helps create a luxurious custard that doesn’t feel overly sweet. If you're looking to lighten things up, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, but be aware that this will alter the texture slightly, making it less lush. Just remember to whisk the milk in gradually to maintain the mixture’s smoothness during preparation.

Caramelizing the Sugar

Caramelizing the sugar on top of your Crème Brûlée is the moment that elevates this dessert from simple to spectacular. A kitchen torch is the most effective tool for this, as it allows for precision. Hold the flame about 2 inches above the sugar and move it around to avoid burning any one area. You're aiming for an even, golden-brown crust that should crack beautifully when tapped with a spoon. If you don’t have a torch, broiling in the oven can work, but keep a close watch to prevent burning.

To achieve the perfect caramel layer, use granulated sugar rather than brown. The granulated sugar melts evenly and creates that distinct glassy finish. Make sure to apply it in a thin, even layer—if it’s too thick, it might not caramelize properly and can become gooey instead of crunchy. Allow the sugar to cool slightly after caramelization for a firmer texture before serving.

Ingredients

For the Crème Brûlée

2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 large egg yolks
1/4 cup extra granulated sugar (for caramelizing)

For the Berries

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract over medium heat until it simmers. Do not boil.

Whisk the Egg Yolks

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks until well blended. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the yolks while whisking continuously.

Bake the Custards

Pour the mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish. Fill the dish with hot water to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30-35 minutes.

Cool and Chill

Remove the ramekins from water and let them cool. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Caramelize the Sugar

Before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly over each custard. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it's golden and hard.

Serve with Berries

Serve immediately with fresh mixed berries on the side.

Enjoy the satisfying contrast of textures!

Pro Tips

For a more intense vanilla flavor, consider using vanilla beans instead of extract. Also, be sure not to overbake the custards
they should be just set with a slight jiggle in the center.

Choosing the Right Berries

The type of berries you choose can significantly influence the flavor profile of your Crème Brûlée. Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries work beautifully, each adding their own level of sweetness and tartness. If you prefer a sweeter taste, opt for ripe strawberries, while raspberries offer a pleasing tang that contrasts nicely with the rich custard. You can even roast the berries lightly with sugar before serving, which enhances their natural sweetness and brings out a deeper flavor.

If fresh berries aren’t available, frozen berries can be a suitable alternative. Just thaw them completely and drain off excess liquid to avoid watering down your dessert. For an extra boost of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of lavender over the berries, which complements the vanilla in the custard perfectly.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of Crème Brûlée is that it can be prepared ahead of time. Once you've baked the custards and allowed them to cool, they can be covered with plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The key is to caramelize the sugar just before serving to ensure the top remains crunchy and doesn’t absorb moisture from the custard below.

If you're looking to serve a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Just ensure you adjust your baking times accordingly and consider using larger ramekins if needed. Baking in batches may also be necessary to ensure even cooking. Likewise, individual servings can be prepped in jars, which not only looks charming but also simplifies serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use low-fat cream?

Using low-fat cream will change the texture and flavor. Heavy cream is best for a rich custard.

→ How can I achieve a uniform caramelized top?

Hold the torch at an angle and move it slowly across the sugar until it melts evenly, ensuring not to scorch the custard below.

→ What kind of berries work best?

A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers the best flavor and color contrast.

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! The custards can be made a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.