Crème Brulee Pie Recipe

Indulge in the luxurious combination of a classic crème brûlée and a buttery pie crust with this Crème Brûlée Pie recipe. Featuring a velvety custard filling infused with real vanilla and topped with a crisp, caramelized sugar layer, this dessert is a true showstopper. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to a decadent dessert, this pie delivers the rich flavor and creamy texture of a traditional crème brûlée in a crowd-pleasing pie form.

Discover tips for making this easy crème brûlée pie, gluten-free options, and the secrets to achieving that perfect brûlée topping every time. Pair it with coffee or serve with fresh berries for a dessert experience that’s as elegant as it is satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• Normal Crust Option: Use your favorite pie crust recipe or store-bought.
• Gluten-Free Crust Option: Substitute with a gluten-free pie crust.

For the Filling

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for brûlée topping
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 vanilla beans (scraped seeds) or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 6 large egg yolks

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

1. Make the Dough: Prepare the pie dough according to your recipe. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. The dough can also be made up to 3 days in advance.

Step 2: Preheat and Bake the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. For the Normal Crust:

• Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface until it extends 2 inches beyond the pie pan’s edges.
• Transfer the dough to the pan, trim the edges, and crimp them for a decorative finish.
• Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
• Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.

1. For the Gluten-Free Crust:

• Roll out the dough on parchment paper, then flip it onto the pie pan. Trim and crimp the edges.
• Add parchment paper and pie weights. Bake for 20 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for an additional 8 minutes until golden.

1. Let the crust cool to room temperature. Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, ½ cup sugar, salt, and vanilla seeds. Heat until steaming, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add the hot cream mixture to the yolks, a little at a time, whisking continuously to avoid cooking the eggs. Continue until all the cream is incorporated.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Pour the custard mixture into the cooled pie crust. Use a kitchen torch to pop any surface bubbles for a smooth finish.
2. Bake at 300°F for 35-45 minutes, until the edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
3. Cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 5: Brûlée the Top

1. Before serving, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly over the pie’s surface.
2. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. If you don’t have a torch, use your oven’s broiler, but watch closely to avoid burning.
3. Slice and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and Unique: Combines the creamy indulgence of crème brûlée with the comfort of pie.
• Decadent Flavor: A rich vanilla custard with a perfectly crisp caramelized topping.
• Perfect for Entertaining: A show-stopping dessert for holidays, dinner parties, or special occasions.

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Tips

• Prevent Scrambling: Add the hot cream mixture to the egg yolks slowly while whisking constantly.
• Smooth Finish: Pop surface bubbles before baking for a flawless look.
• Even Brûlée: Hold the torch a few inches away and move in circular motions for uniform caramelization.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Flavored Custard: Add a splash of rum, brandy, or orange liqueur for a twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for warmth.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Add the brûlée topping just before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have a torch?
A: Use your oven’s broiler for a caramelized top, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cover the pie loosely and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve slices with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or dessert wine for an indulgent treat.
• Enjoy this dessert as the centerpiece for special celebrations or intimate gatherings.

This Crème Brûlée Pie combines the best of two worlds for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is impressive. Perfectly creamy, subtly sweet, and beautifully caramelized—it’s a treat you’ll want to make again and again!