Desserts that are both rich and indulgent, yet still manage to be light and airy? Count us in! Crème caramel is a classic dessert that never goes out of style, and when you add a creamy twist to it, it becomes even more irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat after dinner or a special occasion dessert, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy crème caramel recipes.
From classic vanilla to unique flavors like matcha green tea and chai spiced, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best in this beloved dessert. So go ahead, indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of our crème caramel collection!
Classic Vanilla Crème Caramel
A timeless French dessert that combines creamy custard with a caramelized sugar crust, this classic vanilla crème caramel is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (200ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Pour into 6 (8-ounce) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Crème Caramel with Caramelized Pineapple
Elevate your dessert game with this unique fusion of creamy coconut custard, caramelized pineapple, and a crispy caramel topping. This tropical twist on the classic crème brûlée is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and unsweetened shredded coconut. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. While the custards are baking, caramelize the pineapple wedges by cooking them in butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring frequently, until golden brown.
7. Remove the ramekins from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes + chilling time
Espresso Infused Crème Caramel
This recipe combines the bold flavors of espresso with the classic richness of crème caramel, resulting in a unique and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 ounce)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, cream, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and espresso. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lavender Honey Crème Caramel
Escape to a world of sweet serenity with this unique and aromatic crème caramel dessert, infused with the soothing essence of lavender and the warmth of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with lavender buds. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl; discard lavender buds.
4. Whisk in egg yolks and salt until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Salted Caramel Crème Caramel
Salted Caramel Crème Caramel Recipe
Get ready to impress your loved ones with this rich and decadent dessert! Salted caramel crème caramels are a perfect combination of sweet and salty flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the softened butter and egg yolks. Temper the butter mixture by gradually adding the warm cream mixture, whisking constantly.
- Return the saucepan to the stovetop and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly (about 10-12 minutes).
- Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract and caramel sauce. Let cool to room temperature.
- Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Serve chilled, sprinkled with salt if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (not including chilling time)
Pumpkin Spice Crème Caramel
Elevate the classic crème caramel dessert by infusing it with the warmth of pumpkin spice. This unique twist on a fall favorite combines the richness of caramelized sugar and creamy custard with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, pumpkin puree, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture simmers and flavors meld (about 10 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in egg yolks.
5. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up sides of ramekins.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Swirl Crème Caramel
Experience the rich flavors of caramel, creamy custard, and velvety chocolate all in one indulgent dessert. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or as a decadent reward.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 2 ounces (60g) high-quality dark chocolate chips, melted
– Fresh whipped cream and caramel sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, egg yolks, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens and reaches 170°F (77°C).
4. Remove from heat; stir in melted butter and chocolate chips until smooth.
5. Pour into individual ramekins or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set.
7. Allow to cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Crème Caramel
Experience the perfect blend of Japanese green tea and French dessert traditions with this unique Matcha Green Tea Crème Caramel recipe. The subtle bitterness of matcha is balanced by the richness of caramel, creating a truly exotic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, sugar, and butter until dissolved.
3. Add matcha powder and whisk until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and salt until lightened.
5. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
6. Pour the mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Serve chilled with caramel sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Orange Blossom Crème Caramel
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and dreamy Orange Blossom Crème Caramel, infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of orange blossom water.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup orange blossom water
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in butter and orange blossom water until melted.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cardamom Rosewater Crème Caramel
This creamy crème caramel is infused with the warm, aromatic spices of cardamom and the subtle sweetness of rosewater. Perfect for a special occasion or as a unique dessert to surprise your guests.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon rosewater
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cardamom and rosewater. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes.
4. Whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the eggs, whisking continuously.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bourbon Vanilla Bean Crème Caramel
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy Bourbon Vanilla Bean Crème Caramel, perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey (optional)
– 1/2 cup crème fraîche
– 1/4 cup chopped vanilla beans
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 170°F (77°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon whiskey (if using). Let it cool slightly.
4. Strain the caramel into a clean container, discarding the solids.
5. Whisk in crème fraîche and chopped vanilla beans until well combined.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Gingerbread Crème Caramel
Experience the warmth of gingerbread combined with the richness of crème caramel, perfect for a unique dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and melted butter. Temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
5. Remove from oven and sprinkle each with a pinch of ground ginger and cinnamon.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chai Spiced Crème Caramel
Experience the warmth of Indian spices with a twist on the classic crème caramel recipe. This creamy dessert combines the richness of vanilla custard with the aromatic flavors of chai.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 3 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm chai-spiced cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Strain the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Berry Compote Topped Crème Caramel
Sweet and tangy berry compote adds a delightful twist to the classic crème caramel dessert. This recipe combines the richness of creamy custard with the natural sweetness of fresh berries, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar has dissolved.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
4. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups. Place in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Melt butter and mix with mixed berries. Spoon berry compote over cooled crème caramel.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Almond Brittle Crème Caramel
A classic dessert gets a sophisticated twist with this Almond Brittle Crème Caramel recipe. Crunchy almond brittle is layered with creamy caramel and a silky crème, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) water
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in baking soda, salt, and sliced almonds. Let cool slightly.
5. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet and spread evenly. Cool completely.
6. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over low until warm and smooth.
7. Cut cooled almond brittle into desired shapes. Serve with crème caramel.
Cooking Time:
– Almond brittle: 5 minutes
– Crème caramel: 10-15 minutes
Tiramisu-Inspired Crème Caramel
A creamy twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Tiramisu-Inspired Crème Caramel combines the rich flavors of coffee and liqueur with a velvety caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1 tablespoon Kahlúa liqueur (or other coffee-flavored liqueur)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in milk, melted butter, coffee powder, Kahlúa liqueur, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rum Raisin Crème Caramel
This decadent dessert combines the flavors of rum-soaked raisins with a smooth crème caramel, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup raisins soaked in 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add warm cream mixture to egg yolks, whisking until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or custard cups. Place raisins and rum on top of each ramekin.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Banana Crème Caramel
Transform ordinary bananas into a decadent dessert with this rich and creamy caramel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the caramel turns golden brown.
4. Add the sliced bananas to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender and coated in the caramel.
5. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in a world of creamy caramel delights with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic vanilla to innovative flavors like coconut and matcha green tea, there’s something for everyone. Try adding espresso-infused or lavender honey to give your desserts an extra boost of flavor. Or, go bold with salted caramel, pumpkin spice, or gingerbread for a seasonal twist. With these crème caramel recipes, you’ll never get tired of the same old dessert.