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–+ servings

Crab Brûlée

A sophisticated fusion of creamy custard and delicate crab meat, topped with a caramelized sugar crust, perfect for impressing guests at special occasions.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Custard Base

  • 2 cups heavy cream Forms the custard’s rich, silky base.
  • 4 large egg yolks Provide structure and creaminess to the custard.
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Adds a savory depth that complements the crab.
  • to taste salt Essential for seasoning the custard.
  • to taste black pepper Essential for seasoning the custard.
  • optional garlic A hint of garlic enhances the dish without overpowering the crab’s delicate flavor.

Crab and Topping

  • 8 ounces lump crab meat Provides delicate seafood flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Used for caramelizing the brûlée crust.

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Brightens the flavor with a subtle citrus note.
  • to taste paprika or cayenne Adds a hint of spice for those who enjoy a kick.
  • to taste finely chopped chives Offers a mild oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
  • In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream and egg yolks. Whisk until smooth.
  • Stir in grated parmesan, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and optional garlic or lemon zest for added flavor.

Combine Ingredients

  • If using fresh crab, pick through to remove any shell fragments.
  • Gently fold lump crab meat into the custard mixture.

Bake

  • Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
  • Place the ramekins in a baking dish and create a water bath by pouring hot water into the baking dish, filling it halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Caramelizing

  • Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar on top of each custard.
  • Use a blow torch to caramelize the sugar until golden brown and crackly.

Serve

  • Let the sugar crust cool for 1–2 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh chives, a pinch of paprika, or lemon zest for a finishing touch.

Notes

This dish is perfect for dinner parties, holiday celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 16gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gSodium: 300mgSugar: 2g
Keyword Crab Brûlée, Dinner Party, Gourmet Seafood
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