Strawberry Crème Brûlée Dessert

Name: Strawberry Crème Brûlée Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping; 4 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Cravings Bakery

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Crème Brûlée Dessert, as it's a perfect balance between creamy richness and the fresh taste of strawberries. The caramelized sugar on top adds that delightful crunch that makes each bite unforgettable. As I meticulously torch the sugar to create that golden crust, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. This dessert is not only elegant enough for special dinners but also surprisingly simple to put together. When I serve it, the look on my guests' faces is priceless, and it never fails to impress.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-21T19:14:18.700Z

When I first tried making crème brûlée at home, I was surprised by how simple the process was! Using fresh strawberries not only brightens up the flavor but also gives an attractive presentation. I experimented with using a little strawberry puree mixed into the cream, and it was a game changer. The custard becomes silky smooth, and the addition of fresh fruit elevates this classic dessert into something truly special.

As I perfected my technique, I discovered that letting the custard chill overnight leads to the best texture. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, when I caramelize the sugar just before serving, I get that satisfying contrast between the cool custard and the warm crunchy topping — it's pure bliss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent and creamy custard with a fruity twist
The satisfying crack of the caramelized sugar crust
An impressive dessert that’s easier to make than you think

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using fresh, ripe strawberries is crucial for achieving a vibrant flavor in your Strawberry Crème Brûlée dessert. Opt for organic strawberries when possible, as they tend to be sweeter and less bitter. Make sure to hull and slice them just before use to prevent browning and to maintain their fresh taste. The freshness of the strawberries will shine through in the custard, elevating the overall taste experience.

The choice of heavy cream also plays a significant role in the dessert's texture. A quality heavy cream with at least 36% fat content creates the ideal silky custard. If you're looking to lighten the recipe, you can substitute a part of the heavy cream with whole milk, but be aware that this may slightly alter the creaminess and mouthfeel of the final product.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the egg yolks and sugar, it's important to whisk them until they become pale and slightly thickened. This aeration helps create a creamy texture in the final custard. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to incorporating too much air, which may cause the custard to puff up during baking and result in a less desirable texture.

For the baking process, using a water bath is a key technique that ensures even cooking of the custards. Don't skip this step, as it helps to regulate the temperature around the ramekins, preventing them from cooking too quickly. Aim for a gentle simmer in the water bath and make sure the water reaches at least halfway up the sides of the ramekins for optimal heat distribution.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you begin:

Ingredients

2 cups heavy cream
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for topping
4 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Now that you have everything you need, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Crème Brûlée:

Prepare the Cream Mixture

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sliced strawberries. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and let it steep for 15 minutes.

Mix Yolks and Sugar

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Combine and Strain

After the cream has steeped, strain it through a fine mesh sieve into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Bake the Custards

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pour the mixture into ramekins and place them in a baking dish filled with hot water halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 30-35 minutes until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Chill and Caramelize

Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top of each custard and use a kitchen torch to caramelize until golden brown.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted dessert!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, try infusing the cream with a few mint leaves while heating, or experiment with other fruits!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

To enhance the dessert, consider serving it with a side of fresh strawberry compote or a drizzle of balsamic reduction. The acidity of the balsamic complements the sweetness of the crème brûlée beautifully, adding a gourmet touch. A dollop of lightly whipped cream can also add an airy contrast to the rich custard, creating a delightful balance.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different flavor profiles. Infusing the cream with herbs like basil or mint can introduce a fresh note that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries. Just steep the herbs with the cream, then strain them out before combining with the egg mixture to keep the flavors subtle but impactful.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Crème Brûlée can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for entertaining. After baking and chilling, the custards can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before caramelizing the sugar on top. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to avoid any absorption of odors from the fridge.

If you want to make the dessert even further ahead, consider preparing the custard mixture and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into ramekins and baking. This will ensure even cooking and that your custard turns out perfectly set.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, chilling overnight enhances the flavor.

→ What can I use if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

You can broil the sugar under the oven's broiler for a couple of minutes, but keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Yes, raspberries or peach puree also work wonderfully!

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Stored in the refrigerator, it will last for about 2 days.