Pastries & desserts

Crème brûlée

A smooth custard topped with a crisp layer of caramelized sugar.

Creme brulee sugar crust being caramelized with a torch
Photo: Mohamed OlwyPexels license

Say it: krem broo-LAY (approximate English pronunciation)

Crème brûlée has a layer of caramelized sugar above a smooth custard. Breaking the brittle surface reveals the softer cream below. Vanilla is familiar, although restaurants offer other flavors. It usually arrives in an individual dish, with the contrast between the topping and custard defining the experience.

Names to look for on menus

creme brulee, cremes brulees

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Where to try Crème brûlée

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About this guide and further reading

Written by Eat French.Food. Reference check: 2026-10-07. Pronunciations are approximate guides for English speakers.