Gluten Free Creme Brulee Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 14, 2025

Crème brûlée is a timeless classic French dessert known for its rich, creamy custard base topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust. For those with gluten sensitivities, finding a luscious dessert that is both satisfying and safe to eat can be a challenge.

Luckily, this gluten free crème brûlée recipe offers everything you love about the traditional treat without any gluten-containing ingredients. It’s smooth, velvety, and boasts that iconic crispy top that cracks delightfully with every spoonful.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet elegant enough to impress guests. With just a few basic ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that embodies comfort and refinement, all while being mindful of dietary restrictions.

Ready to dive into this decadent delight? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gluten free crème brûlée recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and gourmet taste. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Gluten-free and safe: Uses naturally gluten-free ingredients ensuring no cross-contamination and safe indulgence for gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Simple ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find components needed—just staples from your pantry.
  • Perfect texture: Silky smooth custard balanced with a crisp caramelized sugar topping.
  • Make ahead friendly: Prepare in advance to save time and serve chilled for the best flavor.
  • Customizable flavors: Add vanilla bean, citrus zest, or liqueurs to tailor the dessert to your taste.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream (use full fat for best texture)
  • 1 vanilla bean (or 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract)
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
  • A pinch of salt

Equipment

  • 4 ramekins (6-ounce capacity each)
  • Baking dish or roasting pan (large enough to fit ramekins)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Kitchen torch (for caramelizing sugar)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Arrange the ramekins in your baking dish.
  2. Prepare the vanilla cream: Pour the heavy cream into a saucepan. Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds, adding both seeds and pod to the cream. Heat the cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer—do not boil. Remove from heat, cover, and let it steep for 15 minutes to infuse the vanilla flavor.
  3. Mix egg yolks and sugar: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, ½ cup sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture turns pale and slightly thickened.
  4. Combine cream and eggs: Remove the vanilla bean pod from the cream. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
  5. Strain the custard: Pour the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits or impurities, ensuring a smooth texture.
  6. Fill ramekins: Divide the custard evenly among the ramekins.
  7. Bake in a water bath: Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Carefully place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until custards are just set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. Cool and chill: Remove ramekins from the water bath and cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
  9. Caramelize the sugar: Sprinkle a thin, even layer of granulated sugar (about 1-2 teaspoons) over each custard. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and forms a golden, crisp crust. Alternatively, place under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  10. Serve immediately: Let the caramelized sugar cool and harden for a minute, then enjoy the perfect crack and creamy custard beneath!

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest texture, avoid boiling the cream and don’t overbake the custard. A slight jiggle in the center means it’s perfectly done!”

  • Vanilla variations: Try substituting vanilla bean with high-quality vanilla extract or adding a splash of bourbon or rum for depth.
  • Flavor twists: Infuse the cream with citrus zest, lavender, or coffee beans to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Sugar topping alternatives: Use coconut sugar or brown sugar for a different caramel flavor and color.
  • Make it dairy-free: For a vegan-friendly alternative, check out 5 Ingredient Vegan Gluten Free Recipes to find suitable cream substitutes and custard bases.
  • Storage: Prepare the custard up to 2 days ahead, but caramelize the sugar just before serving to maintain its crunch.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 ramekin)
Calories 320
Fat 25g
Saturated Fat 15g
Cholesterol 210mg
Carbohydrates 24g
Sugar 23g
Protein 5g
Gluten 0g (gluten free)

Serving Suggestions

Serving crème brûlée is all about enhancing the experience without overpowering its delicate flavors. Here are a few ideas:

  • Garnish with fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries for a bright contrast.
  • Pair with a light cookie or biscuit, preferably gluten free, to add a crunchy side.
  • Serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or espresso for a classic French pairing.
  • Drizzle a little berry coulis or caramel sauce around the ramekin for presentation flair.

Conclusion

Creating a gluten free crème brûlée at home is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of French elegance to your dessert table. This recipe delivers a luscious custard that’s rich, silky, and infused with the warm aroma of vanilla.

Topped with a satisfyingly crisp caramelized sugar crust, it’s a dessert designed to impress both in flavor and presentation.

Whether you’re new to gluten free cooking or a seasoned pro looking for a decadent treat, this crème brûlée is a versatile recipe that fits any occasion. Plus, with its straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can easily make it ahead of time to wow your guests or simply enjoy a luxurious moment on your own.

For more delicious gluten free and vegan recipes, be sure to explore our collection like Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping, Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, and Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious.

Enjoy your gluten free crème brûlée adventure and happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Gluten Free Creme Brulee

Description: A rich and creamy gluten free dessert with a crisp caramelized sugar topping. Perfectly smooth and indulgent for any occasion.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
  • 5 large egg yolks
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  2. Heat cream and vanilla bean in a saucepan until just boiling, then remove from heat and let steep.
  3. Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt until pale and thick.
  4. Slowly pour warm cream into egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  5. Strain mixture and pour into ramekins.
  6. Place ramekins in a baking dish, add hot water halfway up sides.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes until custard is set but still slightly jiggly.
  8. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  9. Sprinkle sugar evenly over custards and caramelize with a kitchen torch.
  10. Serve immediately.

Nutrition: Calories: 370 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 35 g | Carbs: 15 g

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Marta K

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