Description
Berry Brûlée is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines juicy fresh berries with a creamy custard or yogurt base, finished with a caramelized sugar crust. It offers a sweet crunchy top layer paired with fresh, fruity brightness underneath, making it a lighter take on the classic crème brûlée perfect for entertaining or a quick weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Berry Base
- 2 cups mixed fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
For the Cream Layer
- 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt or pastry cream
For the Brûlée Topping
- 4 teaspoons granulated sugar (for brûlée topping)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the berry base: Divide the mixed fresh berries evenly between 4 small ramekins or shallow dessert bowls, ensuring each serving has a balanced portion of the variety of berries.
- Add the cream layer: Spoon about ¼ cup of vanilla Greek yogurt or pastry cream over the berries in each ramekin, smoothing the top with the back of the spoon for an even, creamy surface.
- Sprinkle sugar: Evenly sprinkle 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar over the surface of the cream layer in each ramekin. This sugar will form the caramelized crust.
- Caramelize the sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully melt the sugar until it bubbles and forms a golden, crisp caramel crust. If you do not have a torch, place the ramekins under a broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Cool and serve: Let the caramel crust cool and harden for 1–2 minutes before garnishing with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture contrast and flavor.
Notes
- If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can caramelize the sugar under a broiler for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Swap the Greek yogurt for mascarpone, whipped ricotta, or a light custard to vary the flavor and texture of the creamy base.
- This dessert is best served immediately after caramelizing as the sugar crust softens over time.
