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Perfect creme brulee with caramelized top

Creme Brulee Curdled? Here’s What Went Wrong (And How to Fix It!)


  • Author: Megan
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Learn why your crème brûlée curdled, how to prevent it, and what you can do to possibly save it.


Ingredients

  • Heavy cream
  • Egg yolks
  • Sugar
  • Vanilla extract or vanilla bean
  • Hot water (for water bath)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Gently heat the cream until warm, not boiling.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until combined.
  4. Slowly temper the cream into the yolk mixture to prevent cooking the eggs.
  5. Strain the mixture to remove any cooked bits.
  6. Pour into ramekins and place them in a baking dish.
  7. Add hot water to the baking dish to create a water bath.
  8. Bake until just set with a slight jiggle in the center (about 30-40 minutes).
  9. Cool and refrigerate before adding sugar topping and torching.

Notes

To prevent curdling, avoid overheating the cream, temper eggs slowly, and bake at a low, consistent temperature. If curdled, blend and strain the custard as a salvage attempt.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ramekin
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg