Air Fryer Individual Crème Brûlée Custards

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480 ml) heavy cream
• 5 large egg yolks
• ⅓ cup (65 g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Topping

• 4–6 teaspoons granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for 3 minutes.
2. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until hot but not boiling.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Slowly pour the warm cream into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for the smoothest custard.
6. Divide the custard evenly among 4 small ramekins.
7. Place the ramekins in the air fryer basket.
8. Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still have a slight jiggle.
9. Carefully remove the ramekins and let them cool to room temperature.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Caramelize the Top

Using a Kitchen Torch

1. Sprinkle 1–1½ teaspoons sugar evenly over each custard.
2. Torch the sugar until melted and golden brown.
3. Let sit for 1 minute to harden before serving.

Without a Torch

1. Sprinkle sugar over the chilled custards.
2. Place under a very hot oven broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely until caramelized.
3. Chill for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Avoid boiling the cream, which can affect the custard texture.
• Straining the custard removes air bubbles and creates a silky finish.
• Different air fryers vary, so check for doneness at the 12-minute mark.
• The custard should wobble slightly in the center when done.

Flavor Variations

•  Orange: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest.
•  Coffee: Stir 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder into the warm cream.
•  Chocolate: Add 2 ounces melted dark chocolate to the custard mixture.
•  Coconut: Replace ½ cup of the cream with coconut milk.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 3 days.
• Add the sugar topping and caramelize just before serving for the best crackly crust.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: About 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 individual custards