Horatio'S Burnt Creme
Horatio's Burnt Creme features a rich custard base topped with caramelized sugar, offering a creamy, indulgent dessert with a satisfying crispy topping that suits special occasions and dinner parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the cream over low heat until bubbles form around the edge of the pan.
- Beat the egg yolks and sugar together until thick, about 3 minutes.
- Gradually beat the warm cream into the egg yolk mixture.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the custard into 6 (6-ounce) custard cups.
- Place the cups in a pan of boiling water, 1/2-inch deep.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (or slightly less) until set, about 45 minutes.
- If using glass cups, bake at 325°F for about an hour.
- Remove cups from water and refrigerate until chilled.
- Sprinkle each with 2 teaspoons of sugar.
- Place under broiler and cook until the sugar topping is medium brown.
- Chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth custard, gradually add the warm cream to the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. If you want to experiment, consider using coconut cream instead of whipping cream for a dairy-free version. For added flavor, you could infuse the cream with citrus zest or a cinnamon stick while heating it. Make sure to watch the broiler closely to avoid burning the sugar topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Horatio's Burnt Crème in the custard cups for an elegant presentation. Pair it with fresh berries or a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with a drizzle of Jacques And Suzanne Vinaigrette Salad Sauce on a side salad for a more balanced meal. A dollop of whipped cream can add a nice touch as well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. Reheat gently under the broiler if you prefer a warm dessert, but be cautious not to overheat it as this can cause the custard to separate. For a chilled treat, serve directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Horatio'S Burnt Creme contains roughly 629 calories, with 28g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?
Using whole eggs will change the texture of the custard, making it less rich and creamy. The yolks provide the desired richness and custardy consistency, so it's best to stick with just the yolks for this recipe.
What should I do if the custard doesn't set?
If the custard doesn't set, it may need more time in the oven. Ensure your water bath is at a steady simmer and check for doneness around the 45-minute mark. If it's still jiggly, allow it to bake a bit longer, checking every 5 minutes.
Is it necessary to use a water bath?
Yes, the water bath is crucial for even cooking and prevents the custard from curdling. It helps maintain a gentle heat, allowing the custard to set properly without becoming rubbery.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).