Classic Crème Caramel (Krem Karamel) Recipe

Crème Caramel, also known as Krem Karamel in many European kitchens, is a timeless dessert that combines rich vanilla custard with a glossy, bittersweet caramel topping. Light, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, it’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you’re craving something elegant yet comforting.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make crème caramel from scratch with simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this classic krem karamel recipe will help you achieve a silky smooth custard and beautifully caramelized topping every time.

Ingredients for Crème Caramel (Krem Karamel)

Caramel:

• 100 g (3½ oz / ½ cup) granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp water

Custard Cream:

• 500 ml (17 fl oz / 2 cups) whole (full-cream) milk
• 1 vanilla pod (or ½ tsp vanilla powder / vanilla extract)
• 2 large organic eggs
• 3 organic egg yolks
• 70 g (2½ oz / ⅓ cup) sugar

How to Make Crème Caramel (Step-by-Step)

1. Make the Caramel

1. Add granulated sugar and water to a small saucepan. Shake gently to help dissolve the sugar.
2. Heat over medium-high heat without stirring. Watch closely; the caramel will start forming in about 10 minutes.
3. Once it turns light amber and smells rich and caramelized, swirl the pan gently. Allow it to reach a medium-dark brown color (too light and it will be overly sweet; too dark and it will taste bitter).
4. Immediately pour the hot caramel into 5-6 ramekins (or one larger baking dish), coating the base evenly.
5. Set aside to cool and harden. Fill the saucepan with water right away to make cleaning easier.

Want to understand the science behind caramelization? Check out this detailed guide from Serious Eats

2. Make the Custard Cream

1. Preheat your oven to 170°C / 340°F (150°C fan / Gas 3).
2. Split the vanilla pod (if using) and add it to the milk in a medium saucepan. Gently heat until the milk is just below boiling point, then remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Remove the vanilla pod and scrape in the seeds.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, yolks, and sugar together until pale and creamy.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking gently. (If the milk is too hot, add it gradually to temper the eggs.)
5. Let the mixture rest for a minute to allow any foam to settle.

3. Bake the Crème Caramel

1. Place the caramel-lined ramekins into a roasting tin lined with baking paper.
2. Pour the custard over the caramel, filling each ramekin nearly to the top.
3. Pour warm water from a kettle into the roasting tin until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins; this creates a gentle water bath.
4. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the custards are just set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
5. Carefully remove the ramekins and let them cool for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
6. Once cool, cover with cling film and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).

Serving Your Crème Caramel (Krem Karamel)

To serve, run a thin knife around the edge of each ramekin and invert onto a dessert plate. The caramel will flow beautifully over the top, creating a glossy sauce over the silky custard beneath.

Tip: Crème caramel tastes even better the next day, as the caramel flavor deepens and the custard becomes more luscious.

Tips for the Perfect Krem Karamel

• Don’t stir the caramel. Stirring can cause sugar crystals to form. Instead, swirl the pan gently.
• Use room-temperature eggs. They blend more smoothly into the custard and prevent curdling.
• Water bath is key. It ensures gentle cooking, preventing the custard from splitting or becoming rubbery.
• Chill thoroughly. Cold krem karamel has the best texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Crème Caramel Recipe

This crème caramel dessert is light, sophisticated, and irresistibly smooth. It’s a classic that never goes out of style; and now that you know how to make krem karamel at home, you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether served after a holiday meal or as a special treat for guests, this timeless dessert is always a showstopper.

If you love classic desserts like crème caramel, you’ll also enjoy our guide on How to Make Crème Brûlée for Beginners; another silky, custard-based treat that’s simple and impressive.