Episode 2 of breaking down every experiment I ran to develop my ideal crème brûlée
Vanilla Crème Brûlée (yield: 6 4-oz ramekins)
1.5 cups (341g) heavy cream
1/2 cup (113g) whole milk
1 vanilla bean
1/2 cup (100g) sugar
1/4 tsp fine salt
6 egg yolks
extra sugar for brulee
1. Cut the vanilla bean in half and scrape the seeds. Add both the seeds and the pod to a pot with the cream, milk, 1/4 cup (50g) of the sugar, and salt. Set over medium heat and bring to just below a boil. Cover and let steep for 30 minutes.
2. Add the egg yolks and remaining 1/4 cup (50g) of sugar to a bowl and mix together until combined.
3. Slowly stream the hot cream/milk mixture into the egg yolks.
4. Strain to remove any large pieces of the vanilla pod and unincorporated pieces of egg.
5. Divide between 6 ramekins set in a 13in x 9in baking pan.
6. Place the baking pan in a pre-heated 325F (163C) oven and fill about a third of the way with hot water.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the custard wobbles slightly in the center when tapped.
8. Remove from the oven, let cool on the counter for 20 minutes, and then at least 4 hours in the fridge.
9. Top with a thin layer of sugar and brulee.
