Here are three exclusive crème brûlée recipes specially crafted for hand-painted terracotta dishes, which retain and distribute heat beautifully. These recipes are designed to complement the rustic charm and even baking qualities of terracotta:
1. Classic Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée
Ingredients (Serves 4–6 terracotta dishes):
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 whole vanilla bean (or 2 tsp pure vanilla extract)
- 5 egg yolks
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Extra sugar for caramelizing tops
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a saucepan, heat cream with the split vanilla bean, scraping seeds into the cream. Bring to a gentle simmer. Remove from heat and let steep 15 minutes. Remove the bean.
- In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale.
- Slowly pour warm cream into the yolks, whisking constantly.
- Pour through a fine sieve into a spouted pitcher.
- Place terracotta dishes in a baking pan. Divide custard between them.
- Fill the baking pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the terracotta dishes.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until centers are just set.
- Cool, then chill at least 2 hours (or overnight).
- Before serving, sprinkle 1–2 tsp sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.