In a cooking rut? Try one of these taste-tested, family-approved recipes using ground beef.
Cafe Creme Brulee
- add review
- #38950
As if creme brulee wasn't good enough already, we had to go and add some coffee. Coffee and Kahlua, to be exact. This dessert doesn't mess around. We won't tell if you replace your morning coffee with it.
serves/makes:
ready in:
2-5 hrs
2-5 hrs
ingredients
2 cups 2% milk
1 1/2 cup evaporated skim milk
2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
2 tablespoons Kahlua
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3 eggs
4 egg whites
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
7 ounces fat-free sweetened condensed milk
2 tablespoons sugar
3 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened
5 ounces fat-free cream cheese, softened
Topping
1 1/2 cup brown sugar, sifted
directions
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Combine the 2% milk, evaporated skim milk, coffee granules, kahlua, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until the coffee granules have dissolved.
Remove the pan from the heat and let cool to room temperature.
Combine the coffee mixture with the eggs, egg whites, vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, sugar, and both types of cream cheese in a food processor. Process until smooth, scraping down the sides of the work bowl as needed.
Divide the mixture evenly between individual custard cups. Place the cups in a large pan.
Add enough water to the pan so it comes halfway up the sides of the custard cups.
Carefully place the pan in the oven and bake at 325 degrees F for 1 1/2 hours or until set.
CAREFULLY remove the pan from the oven (the water will be very hot). Remove the custard cups from the pan and let cool on a wire rack. When cooled, place in the refrigerator until chilled (2-4 hours or overnight).
When ready to serve, evenly sprinkle brown sugar over the top of the creme brulee so they are completely covered with a light coating. Caramelize the brown sugar using a kitchen torch. Serve immediately
You can caramelize the sugar under the broiler but the custard cups will become very hot and should be left to cool before serving so as not to cause burns.
recipe tips
To avoid clumping, whisk the cornstarch into the milk mixture carefully before heating.
Add a dash of espresso powder or flavored syrup to the custard mixture.
Serve the brulee with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa or coffee grounds for added visual and flavor appeal.
For a unique twist, infuse the milk with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg while heating.
Serve with fresh berries or chocolate shavings on the side.
Make a few flavor varieties of brulee and create a dessert sampler at your gathering.
common recipe questions
Can I use a different type of milk?
You can substitute whole milk or almond milk for 2% milk, but be aware that this may alter the texture and richness of the final product.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for Kahlua?
You can replace Kahlua with additional coffee or coffee-flavored syrup, or simply omit it if you prefer a non-alcoholic version; add extra coffee granules if you want to maintain the coffee flavor.
How can I make sure the custard cooks evenly in the water bath?
Make sure to place the custard cups in a deep baking dish and fill the dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the cups. This creates a gentle cooking environment, preventing the custard from curdling.
How will I know when the custard is set?
The custard is done when it has a slight jiggle in the center but is mostly firm. It will further set as it cools.
Can I assemble the custard in advance?
You can make the custard ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the sugar topping and caramelizing it.
What types of toppings can I use besides brown sugar?
You can experiment with granulated sugar, coconut sugar, or even crushed cookies for a different flavor and texture.
How do I caramelize the sugar without a torch?
If you don't have a propane torch, you can place the custards under a broiler. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, and rotate them as necessary. Take caution when serving as they will be extremely hot when removed from the oven. Let them cool before serving.
Can I freeze creme brulee?
Freezing is not recommended for custards, as the texture may become grainy.
What should I do if the custard curdles?
If the mixture curdles before it sets, it's often too hot during the cooking process, or it has been overcooked. If curdling occurs after baking, it can sometimes be blended back to smooth if caught in time.
How can I give the dessert more coffee flavor?
Increase the amount of instant coffee granules or steep whole coffee beans in the milk mixture before straining for a more robust flavor.
What is the purpose of using both whole eggs and egg whites?
Using whole eggs provides richness and creaminess, while the egg whites contribute to a lighter texture. This combination creates a balance between creaminess and a lighter custard.
How do I store leftovers?
Store them in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 2 days. After 2 days the custard may become watery.
Can I make this without a food processor?
Yes, combine the cooled coffee mixture and other ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until smooth.
nutrition data
Nutritional data has not been calculated yet.
Pizza night is always a favorite, especially when you have great tasting pizza from some of the most popular restaurants.
What's the secret ingredient in these cakes? Pudding mix. It not only adds flavor but it gives the cake a richer, creamier texture. No one will know your secret ingredient!
reviews & comments