Peppermint Crème Brûlée Recipe

Indulge in the rich, velvety delight of Peppermint Crème Brûlée, a festive dessert that combines the classic elegance of crème brûlée with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening at home, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make yet impressively elegant. With its creamy custard base and crispy caramelized sugar topping, each spoonful offers a delightful crunch followed by the smooth, mint-infused richness.

Ingredients

For this Peppermint Crème Brûlée, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
• A pinch of salt
• Additional granulated sugar for topping

Preparation Instructions

Creating the perfect Peppermint Crème Brûlée involves several key steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is crucial as the custards need a gentle and consistent heat.

2. Heat the Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Whisk the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and slightly thickened. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the yolks while continually whisking to temper the eggs. Add the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing until well blended.

4. Strain the Mixture: To ensure a silky smooth custard, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl to remove any egg solids.

5. Prepare the Ramekins: Place six to eight ramekins in a baking dish, allowing space between each ramekin for even cooking. Pour the custard mixture evenly into each ramekin.

6. Create a Water Bath: Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath helps the custards bake evenly and prevents cracking.

7. Bake: Carefully transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still jiggle slightly. Remove from the oven and let the ramekins cool in the water bath for 10 minutes.

8. Chill: Once slightly cooled, remove the ramekins from the water bath. Allow them to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

9. Caramelize the Sugar: When ready to serve, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a hard, glass-like crust. If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can broil them in the oven for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.

10. Serve: Allow the crème brûlée to sit for a minute after caramelizing, then serve immediately. For a festive touch, garnish with crushed peppermint candies or a sprig of mint.

Cooking Tips

Creating mouthwatering Peppermint Crème Brûlée can be enhanced with a few expert tips:

• Selecting Ingredients: Use high-quality heavy cream and pure extracts for the best flavor. Since peppermint is a strong flavor, start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste.

• Blending Flavors: Consider infusing the cream with fresh mint leaves by heating them together, then straining them out before combining with the yolks for an even fresher mint flavor.

• Perfecting the Torch Technique: If using a kitchen torch, hold it at a 45-degree angle and keep it moving to create an evenly caramelized top without burning.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Peppermint Crème Brûlée experience, consider pairing it with a classic dark chocolate sauce or a drizzle of raspberry coulis. Fresh berries or whipped cream also make excellent accompaniments. For a holiday twist, add crushed peppermint sticks for an extra pop of color and flavor.

This Peppermint Crème Brûlée recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds; it is visually stunning and rich in sensory appeal, perfect for impressing guests. Embrace the essence of peppermint and create a luxurious dessert that will leave everyone wanting more.

Experiment with variations such as dairy-free options using coconut cream or flavored extracts like chocolate or orange for a unique twist. Don’t hesitate to share your creations and experiences in the kitchen!

Ready to treat your guests or indulge yourself? Make this Peppermint Crème Brûlée and see how it becomes the star of your gatherings. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a cozy night in, this dessert is bound to bring comfort and joy.