Maple Crème Brûlée with Hazelnuts: A Decadent Dessert Experience
- Amy Cobb
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
Indulge in a luxurious dessert that combines the velvety creaminess of classic crème brûlée with the rich sweetness of maple syrup and the nutty crunch of toasted hazelnuts. Maple Crème Brûlée with Hazelnuts is the perfect finale to an elegant dinner or a heartwarming treat for any special occasion.
Maple Crème Brûlée with Hazelnuts: A Decadent Dessert Experience
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 cups heavy cream – Forms the luscious, creamy base of the dessert.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup– Infuses the custard with natural sweetness and depth.
- 4 egg yolks– Creates the silky texture of the custard.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping) – Sweetens the custard and creates the iconic caramelized top.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a subtle, aromatic touch.
- 1/4 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped – Offers a delightful crunchy garnish.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Start by setting the stage for a low, even baking process.
2. Warm the cream mixture: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and maple syrup. Gently heat until warm, ensuring the mixture does not boil.
3. Prepare the custard base: In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is pale and smooth. Gradually pour the warm cream mixture into the bowl while whisking continuously. This tempering process ensures a silky, smooth custard without curdling.
4. Assemble for baking: Pour the custard mixture into individual ramekins. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and carefully pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath will help the custard bake evenly.
5. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven, let cool, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to develop.
6. Create the caramelized crust: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar over the chilled custards. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until it forms a golden, glass-like topping.
7. Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped toasted hazelnuts for a delightful crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy the contrast of the creamy custard and crackling caramelized top.
Nutritional & Dietary Facts
Calories: ~400 per serving
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Dietary Restrictions: Contains dairy (cream), eggs, and nuts (hazelnuts). Not suitable for vegans or those with nut allergies.
- For Dairy-Free Diets: Use coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream.
- For Nut Allergies: Omit hazelnuts or replace them with crushed seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds) for a similar texture.
- For Vegan Diets: Use a vegan custard recipe made with silken tofu or cashew cream and thicken with agar-agar. Replace egg yolks with cornstarch or a starch-based substitute.
Chef’s Notes
- Flavor Variations: For a unique twist, substitute the maple syrup with honey or flavored liqueurs like Amaretto.
- Perfecting the Crust: If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the ramekins under a broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serving Tip: Pair with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance.
Wine Pairing: Tawny Port (Bonus Pairing!)
If you didn’t request a pairing for dessert, a nutty, caramel-rich Tawny Port would be an exquisite addition to match the maple flavors and hazelnut crunch.
This Maple Crème Brûlée with Hazelnuts strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. It's an invitation to savor a dessert that's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Try it for your next celebration or simply as a treat for yourself! Let me know how it turns out and if you’d like tips on refining the presentation. Bon appétit! 🥂
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