Eggnog Crème Brûlée
A splash of bourbon and a generous grating of fresh nutmeg transform this simple custard into a holiday sensation. Make the custard in advance, but wait to caramelize the topping about 10 minutes before serving. The sugar will not hold its signature crunch if subjected to much extra time in a humid refrigerator. While it may be a single-use gadget, a kitchen torch is an inexpensive tool worth the investment. It does the best job at caramelizing the top without warming the custard, and it’s so fun to use.
- Total:
- Serves: 8 persons
Ingredients
- 8large egg yolks
- ½cup/101 grams granulated sugar, plus up to 1/2 cup/101 grams for sprinkling
- ¾teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg
- ½teaspoon kosher salt
- 2cups heavy cream
- 1cup whole milk
- 1tablespoon bourbon
Instructions
Step 1
Heat oven to 325 degrees. Put 8 shallow 4-ounce crème brûlée dishes in a large roasting pan. Bring a kettle of water to a boil.Step 2
Meanwhile, in an 8-cup glass measuring cup (or large bowl), whisk together egg yolks, 1/2 cup/101 grams sugar, nutmeg and salt. Whisk in heavy cream, milk and bourbon. Divide mixture carefully among crème brûlée dishes. Transfer roasting pan to the oven.Step 3
Very carefully pour the boiling water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the crème brûlée dishes. Bake until the edges of the custard are set but jiggle in the center, 25 to 30 minutes, taking care not to overcook.Step 4
With a spatula or tongs, carefully transfer the dishes to a rack to cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to 2 days.Step 5
Just before serving, remove the plastic wrap and sprinkle one of the custards evenly with 2 to 3 teaspoons sugar. Pass a kitchen torch over the surface until the sugar melts and turns a deep golden brown. Repeat with the remaining custards. Allow the sugar to cool for a few minutes.