Pastries & desserts

Crème brûlée

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

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.