Classic French Pots de Crème
Pots de Crème is a rich and creamy French custard dessert, known for its velvety smooth texture and deep flavor. Served in small cups or ramekins, this indulgent treat is made with a simple blend of eggs, cream, sugar, and vanilla, then gently baked in a water bath. Perfect for dinner parties or an elegant dessert, Pots de Crème is a must-try for custard lovers.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Ramekins (4 small cups)
- Baking dish (for the water bath)
- Kettle or pot (for boiling water)
- Oven
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering the water bath)
- Refrigerator (for chilling)
Ingredients
- For the Custard:
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean
- Pinch of salt
- Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Shaved chocolate
- Cocoa powder
- Caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare a baking dish by placing small ramekins inside.
- Heat the cream and milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and milk. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise, scrape the seeds into the mixture, and add the pod. Heat until it just starts to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract (if not using a bean), and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Temper the eggs: Slowly pour the warm cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
- Fill the ramekins: Evenly distribute the custard mixture into the prepared ramekins.
- Prepare a water bath: Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This ensures gentle, even cooking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
- Cool and chill: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best result
Notes
Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
Flavor Variations: Try adding espresso powder, melted chocolate, or orange zest for a twist.
Water Bath Tip: Cover the baking dish with foil while baking to prevent a skin from forming on the custard.
This Pots de Crème recipe is a luxurious, easy-to-make dessert that brings a taste of classic French cuisine to your home. Bon appétit!
Flavor Variations: Try adding espresso powder, melted chocolate, or orange zest for a twist.
Water Bath Tip: Cover the baking dish with foil while baking to prevent a skin from forming on the custard.
This Pots de Crème recipe is a luxurious, easy-to-make dessert that brings a taste of classic French cuisine to your home. Bon appétit!