Caramel Apple Creme Brulee

Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée is a decadent dessert that marries the sweet, comforting flavors of caramel and apples with the silky elegance of the classic French custard, crème brûlée. This dessert is the epitome of indulgence, featuring a creamy custard base infused with caramelized apple goodness and topped with a caramelized sugar crust. In this recipe, we will explore the history of crème brûlée and provide a step-by-step guide on how to create this exquisite Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée.

Crème brûlée, a beloved French dessert that translates to “burnt cream,” has a rich and storied history. Its origins can be traced back to France in the 17th century, where it was initially made by combining eggs, sugar, and cream to create a luxurious custard. The name “crème brûlée” refers to the small pots or cups in which the dessert is traditionally baked.

This delightful dessert quickly gained popularity among the French aristocracy and became a staple in fine dining establishments. Its versatility allowed for a wide range of flavor variations, including chocolate, vanilla, coffee, and fruit-infused versions.

Over time, crème brûlée recipes spread beyond France and found their way into kitchens around the world. The dessert’s reputation for elegance and indulgence remained intact, making it a cherished treat for special occasions and fine dining experiences.

INGREDIENTS

For the Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 vanilla bean pod or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 6 large egg yolks
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping:

• Granulated sugar for sprinkling

INSTRUCTIONS

For the Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place six 6-ounce ramekins or custard cups in a deep baking dish or roasting pan.
2. In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream and whole milk. If using a vanilla bean pod, split it lengthwise, scrape the seeds, and add both the seeds and the pod to the milk mixture. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove it from the heat and remove the vanilla bean pod.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg yolks until well combined.
4. Gradually pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking continuously.
5. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples and sauté until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt to the apples. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are caramelized and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Divide the caramelized apple mixture evenly among the ramekins.
8. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the apples in the ramekins.
9. Fill the baking dish or roasting pan with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
10. Carefully transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.

For the Caramelized Sugar Topping:

1. When the Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and set.
2. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard.
3. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar by holding the flame a few inches above the sugar and moving it in a circular motion until the sugar melts and turns golden brown.
4. Alternatively, you can place the ramekins under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes until the sugar caramelizes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
5. Let the caramelized sugar cool for a minute until it hardens into a crisp layer.
6. Serve the Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée chilled, and enjoy the delightful combination of creamy custard, caramelized apples, and the crispy caramelized sugar crust.

Caramel Apple Crème Brûlée is a dessert that marries tradition with modern flavor, infusing the classic French custard with the warmth and sweetness of caramelized apples. Whether enjoyed as a special treat or as a delightful conclusion to a fine meal, this dessert is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more.