This Crème Brûlée Cake combines the elegance of classic French dessert with the comfort of layered cake. It features soft vanilla cake layers filled with creamy custard and topped with a crackly caramelized sugar crust—just like the traditional crème brûlée. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a luxurious twist on a beloved dessert. It pairs rich custard with tender cake and adds that iconic brûléed sugar crunch for texture. It’s ideal for entertaining or for treating yourself to a little fancy flair. The contrast of silky and crisp textures makes every bite unforgettable.

ingredients

Crème Brûlée Cake 10 This Crème Brûlée Cake combines the elegance of classic French dessert with the comfort of layered cake. It features soft vanilla cake layers filled with creamy custard and topped with a crackly caramelized sugar crust—just like the traditional crème brûlée. It's a showstopper dessert that's perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Whole milk
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream
Cornstarch
Egg yolks
Powdered sugar
Turbinado sugar (for topping)

directions

Make the Custard Filling: In a saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk. Cook until thickened, then stir in vanilla and butter. Let cool completely.
Bake the Cake Layers: Mix the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, beat together eggs, sugar, milk, butter, and vanilla. Combine with the dry mix and divide into cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until a toothpick comes out clean.
Assemble the Cake: Level the cooled cake layers. Spread custard between the layers.
Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set.
Brûlée the Top: Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the top layer. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar until it’s golden and crisp.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

Variations

Add a layer of fresh berries for a fruity twist.
Use chocolate custard instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
Infuse the custard with espresso or cinnamon for a unique take.
Substitute gluten-free flour to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Make it in cupcake form for individual portions.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, torch the top layer just before serving. Avoid freezing, as the custard may separate when thawed. Do not microwave; let it come to room temperature before eating for optimal taste and texture.

FAQs

How do I get the caramelized sugar topping right?

Use turbinado sugar and a kitchen torch. Keep the flame moving to avoid burning and achieve an even caramelized surface.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake and make the custard a day ahead. Assemble and torch just before serving for the best texture.

What can I use instead of a kitchen torch?

You can broil the cake top in the oven for a few minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Is this cake overly sweet?

The balance of lightly sweetened cake and rich custard keeps it from being too sweet. The caramelized sugar adds just enough crunch and sweetness.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

How do I prevent the custard from curdling?

Cook the custard over medium heat and stir constantly. Remove from heat as soon as it thickens.

What kind of sugar is best for brûlée topping?

Turbinado sugar or raw sugar works best for an even, crunchy topping.

Can I use boxed cake mix?

Yes, a high-quality vanilla cake mix will work in a pinch, though homemade gives better flavor.

How long does the brûlée topping stay crisp?

It stays crisp for a few hours. For best texture, brûlée just before serving.

Can I use pastry cream instead of custard?

Yes, pastry cream is an excellent substitute and offers a similar taste and texture.

Conclusion

Crème Brûlée Cake is an elegant dessert that brings together creamy custard, soft cake, and a crisp sugar shell. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or just to treat yourself, this cake is bound to impress. Try your own variation or stick with the classic—either way, you’re in for a delicious experience.

Crème Brûlée Cake