Oh my goodness, if you’re a fan of the luxuriously creamy goodness of crème brûlée, you are in for a real treat with these Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cupcakes! Picture this: a soft and moist vanilla cupcake that’s like a little hug in cake form. Then you have that rich, dreamy vanilla bean filling that just melts in your mouth. And don’t even get me started on the crunchy caramel topping; it’s the perfect crispy crown for these delightful treats!
I first discovered this recipe while trying to impress some guests at a dinner party. Let me tell you, not only did they disappear faster than I could serve them, but I also received compliments that made me feel like a baking rockstar! These cupcakes are wonderfully versatile for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a sweet treat for yourself (no judgment here!). Let’s dive in and create these delicious cupcakes that marry the best of both worlds: classic crème brûlée and the beloved cupcake!
What’s in Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cupcakes?
– All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cupcakes, creating a lovely, soft structure. I prefer using unbleached all-purpose flour for a richer flavor.
– Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! This sugar helps create that tender crumb in our cupcakes.
– Eggs: These guys provide richness and act as a binder, helping everything come together.
– Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to. It adds flavor and keeps our cupcakes moist, just the way we like them!
– Vanilla beans: Oh, the little specks of heaven! Real vanilla beans will give a fragrant and intense flavor that will have you swooning.
– Heavy cream: This makes our vanilla bean filling luscious and creamy. Always opt for the good stuff, you won’t regret it!
– Sugar for caramelizing: A sprinkle of sugar on top that will turn into that perfectly crunchy shell when you torch it.
Is Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cupcakes Good for You?
Well, let’s just say they aren’t exactly health food, but they do bring a bit of joy into our lives! These cupcakes are a lovely indulgence rather than a daily treat. The creamy filling and crunchy topping mean they are rich, so pairing them with some fresh fruit can help balance the sweetness.
– Heavy Cream: While delicious, it is higher in calories and fat, so it’s something to savor in moderation. Just think of it as a special occasion dessert!
– Eggs: They add protein and nutrients, making you feel a bit better about diving into a cupcake (hey, we need our protein!).
– Vanilla Beans: Not only do they taste fantastic, but they have antioxidant properties too. Look at that, we’re practically health food geniuses!
Ingredients
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (plus extra for caramelizing)
– 3 large eggs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 vanilla beans (or 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract)
– 1 cup heavy cream
*Yields: About 12 cupcakes.*
How to Make Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cupcakes?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with liners.
2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and you want it to be a lovely pale color.
3. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re well combined.
4. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla beans and add them to the mixture (or pour in that lovely vanilla extract). Mix well!
5. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – we want ultra-soft cupcakes!
6. Spoon the batter into your prepared liners, filling them about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cupcakes cool completely before filling them.
9. For the filling, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold in a tablespoon of vanilla bean (if you have leftovers).
10. Use a piping bag (or a plastic bag with a corner cut off) to fill the cooled cupcakes with the creamy vanilla filling.
11. For the crunchy topping, sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the filled cupcakes.
12. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until bubbly and golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can use your oven’s broiler for a few minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning!
Sweet Tips & Variations
– **Fruity Variants:** Feel free to toss in some lemon zest or other citrus flavor to brighten things up!
– **Dairy-Free Option:** Substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream for a tropical twist (and don’t forget to check your vanilla).
– **Torch Care:** Make sure to keep that kitchen torch moving while caramelizing to avoid overly burned spots.
These Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée Cupcakes truly bring a slice of luxury to any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe — whether it’s for a special event or just because you want a touch of sweetness in your day. Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with friends and family! I’d love to hear how yours turn out! Happy baking!
