Name: Crème Brûlée Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 290 min
Ingredients: 1 recipe Easy One Pot Vanilla Pastry Cream (Link to recipe); 0.5 cup coarse sugar (such as raw, turbinado or sanding sugar); 6 tablespoon unsalted butter (softened); 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 1.5 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (Link to product); 2 large eggs; 1.25 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1.25 teaspoon baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.33 cup whole milk (plus 1 tablespoon); 1 tablespoon sunflower oil (can also use canola or vegetable oil)

Introduction to Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

The perfect blend of nostalgia and modern dessert

Crème brûlée has long held a cherished place in the hearts of dessert lovers, often evoking memories of cozy evenings or celebratory dinners. Now, imagine capturing that same classic creamy custard and crunchy caramelized sugar topping, but in a modern, portable cupcake! Enter the delightful world of Crème Brûlée Cupcakes—a perfect fusion of nostalgic flavors and contemporary baking.

These cupcakes boast a tender, buttery base that is not just scrumptious on its own, but also an ideal vessel for rich vanilla bean pastry cream. The excitement builds as you take your first bite, where you’re met with the contrast of a silky, smooth filling and a delicate, crackly sugar crust on top. You can find more about the art of pastry cream in this guide, which provides insights into achieving that perfect custard texture.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these Crème Brûlée Cupcakes are bound to impress. They don't just taste heavenly; they also serve as an impressive centerpiece that sparks conversation and admiration. So, grab your apron, and let’s create something truly memorable!

Ingredients for Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

What You Need for the Pastry Cream Filling

To achieve that luxurious, creamy filling in your Crème Brûlée Cupcakes, you'll need to whip up a batch of pastry cream. Here’s what you’ll require:

1 x recipe of Easy One Pot Vanilla Pastry Cream
½ cup (100g) coarse sugar (raw, turbinado, or sanding sugar works well)

This silky pastry cream is the heart of your cupcakes, offering that distinct vanilla essence synonymous with classic crème brûlée.

Essential Ingredients for the Cupcake Batter

Now let’s talk about the fluffy, buttery cupcakes that cradle your pastry cream. Here’s your shopping list for the cupcake batter:

6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons (7ml) pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 ¼ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon (3g) cornstarch
1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon (95ml) whole milk
1 tablespoon (15ml) sunflower oil (or canola/vegetable oil)

These ingredients come together to create a tender, moist cupcake that beautifully complements the richness of the pastry cream. Using a kitchen scale can ensure precision—trust me, it makes a difference!

Step-by-step Preparation of Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Creating Crème Brûlée Cupcakes is like channeling your inner pastry chef right in your kitchen. Follow this easy guide to master these decadent treats that are sure to impress anyone who gets a taste!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Before diving in, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you need:

For the pastry cream filling and topping:

1 recipe of Easy One Pot Vanilla Pastry Cream
½ cup (100g) coarse sugar (raw, turbinado, or sanding sugar)

For the cupcake batter:

6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons (7ml) pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 ¼ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon (3g) cornstarch
1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon (95ml) whole milk
1 tablespoon (15ml) sunflower oil (or canola/vegetable oil)

Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming, and don’t forget to measure accurately for the best results!

Master the vanilla pastry cream

Begin with the pastry cream, which is the soul of our Crème Brûlée Cupcakes. Follow these steps:

In a saucepan, blend the sugar, cornstarch, and flour thoroughly.
Gradually whisk in your cream to create a smooth mixture.
Add milk and egg yolks slowly while whisking.
Scrape in those tiny vanilla bean seeds for that rich flavor.
Cook over medium-low heat, whisking continuously until it thickens (it may take around ten minutes).
Once it bubbles, transfer it to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap to chill in the fridge for at least four hours.

Create the delicious cupcake batter

While the pastry cream chills, whip up the cupcake batter:

Sift together your flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
In a larger bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
Add eggs, beating well after each addition.
Alternately mix in the dry and wet ingredients until just combined.

This creates a light, fluffy base for our cupcakes.

Bake the cupcakes to perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and fill a 12-cup muffin pan with liners.
Divide the batter, filling each liner two-thirds full.
Bake for about 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Fill and top the cupcakes with pastry cream

Now for the fun part! Fill your cupcakes:

Slice a cone out of the center of each cupcake to create space for the pastry cream.
Fill with custard, then top each with a bit more cream. Use an off-set spatula to spread it evenly.

If you're wondering how to get that perfect custard texture, chilling it helps it firm up just enough to hold its shape!

Caramelize the sugar topping

Finish off your Crème Brûlée Cupcakes with that signature crunchy topping:

Gently sprinkle coarse sugar over the pastry cream.
Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until golden.

Be prepared for a little sweet drama as the sugar crisps up. Enjoy your exquisite cupcakes immediately, as the sugar layer will soften over time but will still carry that delightful burnt sugar flavor!

With these steps, your Crème Brûlée Cupcakes will undoubtedly become a show-stopper at your next gathering! Happy baking!

Variations on Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Crème Brûlée Cupcakes are a delightful canvas for flavor exploration! Here are some fun variations to impress your friends and elevate your dessert game:

Chocolate Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Craving something extra indulgent? Try chocolate! Simply swap out some of the flour in your cupcake batter for high-quality cocoa powder. Top with rich chocolate pastry cream, and don’t forget the glorious caramelized sugar topping. This variation satisfies both chocolate and crème brûlée lovers alike!

Seasonal Fruit-Inspired Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Embrace the flavors of the season by adding fruit! Consider folding fresh raspberries or diced peaches into the batter for a fruity twist. You could also top the cupcakes with a fruit compote before adding the sugar crust for a refreshing, summery dessert. The balance of sweet and tart will have everyone coming back for seconds!

These creative takes on Crème Brûlée Cupcakes keep your baking fresh and exciting, making each batch a unique delight. Explore more flavor possibilities by checking out this pastry cream guide for tips!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Creating the perfect Crème Brûlée Cupcakes involves some simple yet essential tips to elevate your baking game.

Chill Your Custard: Ensure your pastry cream is thoroughly chilled before filling the cupcakes. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives it the right texture.
Use Coarse Sugar: Opt for raw or turbinado sugar for that satisfying crunch when caramelizing. It melts beautifully and forms a delightful crust.
Mind the Torch: While using a kitchen torch, keep it moving to avoid burning. And don’t stress about singed liners; they add character!

For more detailed guidance, check out resources like Serious Eats for perfecting pastry techniques. Enjoy your baking!

Serving Suggestions for Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

When it comes to Crème Brûlée Cupcakes, presentation and pairing can elevate your dessert experience to new heights! Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Garnish with Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries, like raspberries or strawberries, add a vibrant splash and a hint of tartness.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider serving with a light dollop of vanilla or lemon whipped cream for an extra creamy texture.
Coffee or Espresso: Pair these sweet treats with a rich coffee or a shot of espresso to balance the sweetness.
Half-Cup Serving: For a fun twist, serve them in half-cups for an elegant dessert display.

These suggestions will impress your friends and family, making your Crème Brûlée Cupcakes the star of any gathering!

Time Breakdown for Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Preparation Time

The preparation for these delightful Crème Brûlée Cupcakes takes about 20 minutes. This includes making the pastry cream, which you can even prepare a day in advance for optimal flavor and texture!

Baking Time

Once you have your cupcake batter ready, baking requires about 30 minutes. Just pop them in the oven and let that wonderful aroma fill your kitchen.

Total Time Required

In total, you're looking at around 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete this delightful dessert. Most of that is waiting time for the pastry cream to chill, but the result is undeniably worth it! Enjoy making these show-stopping cupcakes; they're sure to impress your friends and family!

For more tips on timing and techniques, consider checking out Baking 101: a great resource for bakers of all levels!

Nutritional Facts for Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Calories per cupcake

Each delightful cupcake contains approximately 200 calories. While they are a treat, they're meant to be enjoyed in moderation, making them a perfect indulgence for special occasions or a sweet finish to your day.

Key nutritional benefits

Crème Brûlée Cupcakes are not just about rich flavors! They feature nutrient-dense ingredients, including:

Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health.
Vanilla: Packed with antioxidants, vanilla can promote overall wellness.

Next time you whip up a batch, keep in mind the joy of indulging in a treat that also brings along a few nutritional perks! For more insights on healthy baking, check out this article from Healthline.

FAQs about Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

How do I keep the sugar topping crispy?

To maintain that delightful crunch of the sugar topping on your Crème Brûlée Cupcakes, serve them soon after torching. The sugar hardens beautifully when caramelized, but can become soft if allowed to sit for too long. Store any leftovers in a cool, dry place, but be aware that the sugar may lose its crispness. If you love the crispy texture, enjoy these beauties right after they’re prepared!

Can I make the pastry cream ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making the vanilla pastry cream ahead of time is highly recommended. You can prepare it the day before and let it chill in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor but also saves you precious time on baking day. Just remember to cover the surface of the cream with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming!

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch?

No torch? No problem! You can use your oven’s broiler as an alternative. Simply sprinkle sugar onto the cupcakes, then place them on a baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Rotate them as needed for an even caramelization. If you need a kitchen torch recommendation, check out this highly-rated option. Enjoy your delicious treats!

Conclusion on Crème Brûlée Cupcakes

Indulging in these Crème Brûlée Cupcakes brings a delightful twist to a classic dessert. With tender, buttery cake and a rich, velvety pastry cream, every bite is enchanting. Impress your friends and family with these show-stopping cupcakes and savor the beautiful burnt sugar topping. You won't regret it!

For more dessert inspirations, check out these delicious French pastry recipes that will elevate your baking skills!