Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Name: Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 480 ml heavy cream; 100 g granulated sugar; 4 large egg yolks; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; 30 ml fresh lemon juice; Pinch of salt; 50 g granulated sugar (for topping)

Author: Olivia

Published: February 14, 2026

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Introduction to Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

With a world so busy, a little luxury in the form of a Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert can work wonders! This sumptuous delight pairs velvety lemon custard with that satisfying crunch of caramelized sugar on top. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to treat your loved ones or simply indulge yourself after a long day. Imagine diving into a silky, citrus-infused dream, bringing smiles to faces as they savor each spoonful. This dessert is not only impressive but can easily become your go-to recipe for any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

This Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert is a delightful treat that combines simplicity and elegance. It doesn’t take hours in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy moms and professionals like you. You’ll appreciate the burst of citrus that brightens any meal, and the creamy texture that feels decadent yet comforting. Plus, who can resist the satisfying crack of caramelized sugar? It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

To create this luscious Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert, you’ll need a selection of basic yet luxurious ingredients that come together in the most delightful way. Here’s what you’ll need:

Heavy cream: The backbone of your custard! It adds a richness that’s simply divine.
Granulated sugar: Essential for both the custard and the caramel topping, it balances the tartness of lemon.

Egg yolks: They provide that silky, creamy texture we all love in a custard.
Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla brings a warm undertone that enhances the flavor profile.

Lemon zest: For that fresh, zesty kick! It brightens up the entire dessert and adds delightful fragrance.
Fresh lemon juice: The star ingredient! It’s what makes the custard sing with citrusy sweetness.
Pinch of salt: A little salt helps to amplify the overall flavors, balancing the sweetness.

Granulated sugar (for topping): You’ll sprinkle this on top just before caramelizing, achieving that dreamy, crunchy finish.

Feel free to play around with flavors! You could substitute different citrus zests like orange or even add a splash of liqueur for an adult twist. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article, where you’ll find them all ready for printing!

How to Make Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Creating a Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert is a step-by-step journey that’s both enjoyable and rewarding. Let’s break it down so that you can bring this luscious dessert to life!

Preheat and Prepare

First things first—preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your custard bakes evenly. Next, arrange 4 to 6 ramekins in a deep baking dish, making sure to space them out. This is important because we’ll be creating a water bath. It helps the custard cook gently, resulting in that lovely silky texture we all adore.

Infuse the Cream

Now, let’s bring some flavor into our heavy cream. Pour it into a saucepan and heat over medium until it’s steaming but not boiling. Then, remove it from the heat and add the lemon zest. Let this steep for about 5 minutes. This step is like a flavor hug, making sure all that zesty goodness gets absorbed!

Whisk and Combine

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and the fresh lemon juice. You’ll want to keep whisking until the mixture turns pale and somewhat thick, which usually takes about 2 minutes. This whisking action is just the right workout for your arm, and it’s so satisfying to see the transformation!

Combine Cream and Egg Mixture

Now, let’s make magic happen! Gradually pour the warm cream into the egg mixture, all while whisking. You want to whisk constantly—this prevents the eggs from cooking and curdling. It’s a bit like leading a dance, where you need to be in sync to create harmony in the bowl.

Strain the Custard

Once everything is mixed, it’s time to ensure a super smooth custard. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another bowl. This step removes any lumps or zest bits, giving you that luxurious texture that makes your Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert truly special. Think of it as giving your dessert a little spa day!

Bake

Carefully divide the custard among the prepared ramekins. Once filled, gently pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath is crucial for even baking. Now pop it in the oven, and let it bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the custards are set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Cool Down and Refrigerate

When they’re done baking, let the ramekins cool in the water bath for about 10 minutes. This little cool-down session helps them set further. After that, transfer the ramekins to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you want to plan ahead! The waiting is torture, but trust me, it’s worth it.

Caramelize the Sugar

Now comes the fun part! Before you serve, sprinkle a teaspoon of granulated sugar on top of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it bubbles and turns golden-brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can use the broiler in your oven. Just keep an eye on them, as sugar goes from perfectly caramelized to burnt in a flash! Once it’s done, let it set for a minute before adding any optional garnishes.

Tips for Success

Always strain your custard for that smooth, velvety texture.
Monitor the cream heating carefully; it should be steaming, not boiling.

Make sure the water bath reaches halfway up the ramekins for even cooking.
When caramelizing, move the torch in circles for even browning.
Let your custard chill for at least 2 hours for the best flavor.

Equipment Needed for Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Ramekins: These small dishes are essential, but you can also use oven-safe coffee cups in a pinch.
Whisk: A handheld whisk works great, or you can use an electric mixer for less effort.
Fine-mesh sieve: If you don’t have one, a cheesecloth can work for straining.

Kitchen torch: A culinary torch is ideal, but broiling in the oven works if you’re without one.

Variations of Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Berry Blast: Add a swirl of fresh berry puree, like raspberry or strawberry, into the custard before baking. It adds vibrancy and a burst of flavor!
Coconut Cream: Replace half of the heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist. Garnish with toasted coconut for an extra crunch.

Lavender-Lemon: Infuse the cream with culinary lavender for a floral note that beautifully complements the lemon.
Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the custard mixture for an indulgent chocolate version. You can also sprinkle cocoa powder on top instead of sugar!
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream to make it dairy-free, while keeping that luscious texture intact.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Pair with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and tartness.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and elegance.
Enhance with a sprig of mint for a refreshing touch on the plate.

Enjoy alongside a glass of dessert wine or tea to elevate the experience.
Present in a light-colored plate to highlight the golden caramelized sugar of your custard.

FAQs about Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert

Can I make Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert up to a day in advance. Just be sure to refrigerate the custards after they cool. When you’re ready to serve, simply caramelize the sugar on top!

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

If you don’t have a kitchen torch, no worries! You can broil the crème brûlée in your oven. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!

Can I substitute other flavors for lemon?

Of course! This recipe is versatile. You can experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lime. Adding vanilla or almond extract also makes a delightful twist!

Why is my custard not setting properly?

There are a few reasons your custard might not set well. Make sure to bake it in the water bath and monitor the baking time closely. If it wobbles excessively, it usually just needs more time in the oven.

What should I do if my sugar doesn’t caramelize evenly?

If the sugar isn’t caramelizing evenly, try moving the torch around slowly in circles. This helps distribute the heat evenly. Don’t forget to give it a little shake to help any unsettled crystals melt.

Final Thoughts

There’s an undeniable pleasure in creating a Lemon Crème Brûlée Dessert. The process, though simple, is filled with moments of joy—from whisking the ingredients to the delightful crack of the caramelized sugar. This dessert doesn’t just satiate your sweet tooth; it brings people together. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself after a long week, each spoonful is a reminder of life’s simple luxuries. So, go ahead and take a few moments to savor this gorgeous dessert; you deserve it! Let it brighten your day and bring smiles to those you share it with.