Slow Cooker Creme Brulee

Use a 6-quart slow cooker and a heat-resistant dish that fits all the way inside your stoneware. I use a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish. Add water around the dish, until halfway up the side of the dish. (You are using the slow cooker as a bain-marie, or water bath.)

In a mixing bowl, whip together the eggs, cream, sugar and vanilla. Pour the mixture into the dish, cover, and cook on HIGH for 2 to 4 hours.

The custard should be set with the center still a bit jiggly. Touch the surface lightly with your finger to check. Unlike an oven, it will be difficult to overcook this. Try not to worry.

Very carefully (use oven mitts!) remove the dish and let cool completely on the countertop, then chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours.

Before serving, sprinkle raw sugar over the top and brown with a kitchen torch, or place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, or until sugar has browned. Chill again before serving.

Recipe Source: "Make it Fast, Cook it Slow" by Stephanie O'Dea, 2009"