Description
Berry Brûlée is a delightful French-inspired dessert featuring fresh mixed berries tossed with sugar, vanilla, and optional lemon zest, topped with a crisp caramelized sugar crust. This no-bake dessert is quick to prepare, served chilled with optional crème fraîche or Greek yogurt, making it a perfect light and refreshing treat for summer or any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Mixture
- 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (plus extra for brûlée topping)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
For Serving (Optional)
- ½ cup crème fraîche or Greek yogurt
- Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Macarate the Berries: In a bowl, gently toss the mixed berries with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest if using. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the berries to macerate and release their natural juices.
- Prepare Ramekins: Divide the macerated berries evenly into 4 shallow ramekins or small heatproof dishes ensuring an even distribution for each serving.
- Sprinkle Sugar Topping: Lightly sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar evenly over the top of the berries in each ramekin to prepare for the brûlée crust.
- Caramelize the Sugar: Using a kitchen torch, carefully move the flame evenly over the sugar topping until it melts, bubbles, and forms a golden, crisp crust. If you don’t have a torch, place the ramekins under a preheated broiler for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning and ensuring your ramekins are broiler safe.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the topping to cool for 1–2 minutes so the sugar crust hardens. Serve immediately, optionally topped with a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt and a sprig of fresh mint for garnish.
Notes
- If a kitchen torch is unavailable, using a broiler is an effective alternative to caramelize the sugar; watch closely to prevent burning.
- Ensure your ramekins are broiler-safe when using the broiler method.
- Best served fresh to enjoy the crisp texture of the sugar crust.
- This dessert is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly.
