Instant Pot Creme Brule

There’s something magical about the combination of a silky custard base topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. Instant Pot Creme Brule is an elegant dessert that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make at home. With the help of your trusty Instant Pot, you can create this classic French dessert in no time, impressing friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to whip up this delightful treat!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The creamy texture of Instant Pot Creme Brule is a universal favorite, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a dinner party, a romantic date night, or a simple family gathering, this dessert is sure to impress. The contrast of the crunchy, caramelized sugar crust against the rich, vanilla-infused custard creates a delightful experience for the taste buds. Plus, who doesn’t love that satisfying crack when you tap the sugar top with a spoon?

What We’re Using

To make your own Instant Pot Creme Brule, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large egg yolks – The base of our custard, providing richness and creaminess.
• 1 fresh vanilla bean pod (scraped) or 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract – For that unmistakable vanilla flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard and adds to the topping.
• Pinch of sea salt – Enhances the flavors of the custard.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream – Gives the custard its luscious texture.
• 2 teaspoons turbinado or Demerara sugar, per custard cup, or 1 teaspoon granulated sugar per custard cup – For caramelizing the top.

What’s in the Gear List

Before we begin, you’ll need to gather some equipment:

• Instant Pot – The star of the show that makes this dessert foolproof.
• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients effortlessly.
• Whisk – To blend everything together until smooth.
• Ramekins – Perfect for portioning out individual servings of custard.
• Trivet – To elevate the ramekins in the Instant Pot for even cooking.
• Kitchen torch – For achieving that perfect caramelized sugar crust.

Instant Pot Creme Brule: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s get down to business! Follow these simple steps to prepare your Instant Pot Creme Brule:

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large egg yolks, 1 cup granulated sugar, and a pinch of sea salt until well combined. If you’re using a vanilla bean pod, scrape the seeds into the mixture, or add the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.

Step 2: Add the Cream

Gradually pour in the 1 cup heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

Step 3: Pour into Ramekins

Divide the custard mixture evenly among your ramekins. You should have enough for about four servings, depending on the size of your ramekins.

Step 4: Prepare the Instant Pot

Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the trivet inside and carefully stack the ramekins on top.

Step 5: Set the Instant Pot

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 7 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for 5 minutes, then switch to quick release to let out any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Chill the Custards

Carefully remove the ramekins from the Instant Pot and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Afterward, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you prefer.

Step 7: Caramelize the Sugar

Just before serving, sprinkle 2 teaspoons of turbinado or Demerara sugar (or 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar) evenly over the top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it turns golden brown and bubbly.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Allow the caramelized sugar to cool for a minute before serving, then dig in! Enjoy the satisfying crack of the sugar crust as you take your first spoonful.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

Feeling adventurous? Here are some seasonal flavor boosts to try in your Instant Pot Creme Brule:

• Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.
• Incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Infuse with espresso or coffee for a rich, mocha version.
• Mix in a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier or Amaretto, for a sophisticated edge.

Things That Go Wrong

While making Instant Pot Creme Brule is generally straightforward, a few common issues might arise:

• Curdled Custard: This can happen if the egg yolks are cooked too quickly. Make sure to whisk thoroughly and avoid overcooking.
• Watery Texture: Ensure the water in the Instant Pot is measured correctly, and do not skip the step of allowing the custards to cool and set in the fridge.
• Uneven Caramelization: If the sugar doesn’t caramelize evenly, move the torch closer or further away to achieve an even melt.

Best Ways to Store

To keep your Instant Pot Creme Brule fresh:

Store any leftover custards in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or a lid. They are best enjoyed within 3 days. However, it’s recommended to caramelize the sugar just before serving for the best texture.

Common Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custards a day in advance, allowing them to chill in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to caramelize the sugar right before serving.

Can I use a different flavor of extract?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other extracts such as almond or hazelnut for a unique twist on the classic vanilla flavor.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the ramekins under a broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sugar. Just watch them closely to prevent burning.

Is it okay to use low-fat cream?

While you can use low-fat cream, the texture may not be as rich and creamy as with heavy whipping cream. For the best results, stick with heavy cream.

If you’re looking for more delicious desserts to complement your , consider these options:

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a simple yet elegant recipe for Instant Pot Creme Brule that will surely make your dessert dreams come true. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a restaurant-quality dessert right in your own kitchen. Whether you stick with the classic vanilla flavor or take a leap into seasonal variations, this dessert is bound to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up your Instant Pot, and get ready to indulge in this creamy delight!