A classic crème brûlée gets a fragrant upgrade with the addition of orange blossom water and cardamom. The result is a luxurious and aromatic dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Crème brûlée is a classic French dessert that is made by baking a custard until it is set, then caramelizing the top with a blowtorch. The custard is traditionally made with just a few simple ingredients: cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. However, there are many variations on the classic recipe, and one of our favorites is this orange blossom and cardamom crème brûlée.
The addition of orange blossom water and cardamom gives the crème brûlée a unique and fragrant flavor. Orange blossom water is a floral water that is made by distilling orange blossoms. It has a delicate and sweet flavor that is reminiscent of orange blossoms. Cardamom is a spice that has a warm and slightly sweet flavor. It is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, but it can also be used in desserts.
The combination of orange blossom water and cardamom is a perfect match for crème brûlée. The floral notes of the orange blossom water complement the richness of the custard, while the cardamom adds a warm and spicy flavor. The result is a dessert that is both elegant and delicious.
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 35 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
2 cups heavy cream
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/8 teaspoon orange blossom water
5 egg yolks
1 tablespoon sugar, for brûléeing
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, 1/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, cardamom, and orange blossom water.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks.
Slowly whisk hot cream mixture into egg yolks. Strain custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan.
Pour custard into 4 individual ramekins.
Place ramekins in a large baking dish. Fill baking dish with hot water, reaching halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until custards are just set. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Why It Works
The combination of orange blossom water and cardamom gives the crème brûlée a unique and fragrant flavor.
The custard is baked in a water bath, which prevents it from curdling and ensures that it cooks evenly.
The caramelized sugar topping adds a delicious crunch to the dessert.