Missing the authentic taste of home? Whether you’re craving comforting flavors or looking to introduce your friends abroad to the sweet richness of South African cuisine, this Amarula Crème Brûlée is a must-try dessert. Known for its velvety texture and delicate caramelised topping, Crème Brûlée gets a proudly South African upgrade with the inclusion of Amarula Cream Liqueur, making this dessert a true showstopper.
Rich, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying, this Amarula dessert combines the elegant flavors of custard and chocolate with the creamy, nutty essence of Amarula. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use any leftover Amarula in your kitchen—because honestly, who wouldn’t want to incorporate it into a dessert masterpiece?
Why Amarula is the Star of this Crème Brûlée Dessert
Amarula, a beloved South African cream liqueur, is made from the fruit of the Marula tree. This creamy, nutty, and slightly caramel-flavored liqueur gives this Amarula dessert recipe a uniquely bold flavor, perfectly balancing the richness of the chocolate and the delicate custard notes of the Crème Brûlée.
Ingredients you’ll need
To make this Amarula and Chocolate Crème Brûlée, you’ll need just a handful of simple yet indulgent ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 500 ml (2 cups) fresh cream
- 100 ml Amarula Cream Liqueur (because more Amarula = more love)
- 6 large egg yolks
- 1⁄3 cup (80 ml) caster sugar
- 100 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa works best), finely chopped
- 4 tbsp caster sugar (for caramelized topping)
Not only is this a beautiful Amarula dessert idea, but it’s also a forgiving recipe! Add a tiny bit more Amarula if you like your desserts on the boozier side (trust us, it only enhances the flavor).
Step-by-Step Amarula Crème Brûlée recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and ramekins
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Place 6 ramekins in a deep baking dish, ensuring there’s space between each one. These will hold your delicious dessert later.
Step 2: Warm the cream and Amarula
In a medium saucepan, pour in the fresh cream and Amarula Cream Liqueur. Heat gently over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer—avoid letting it boil. Once it’s warm, take it off the heat and add finely chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted, creating a smooth, chocolatey mixture.
Step 3: Whisk the egg yolks and sugar
While the cream mixture cools slightly, whisk together the egg yolks and caster sugar in a large bowl until the mixture turns pale and creamy. This step adds air and ensures the final texture is smooth and velvety.
Step 4: Combine the mixtures
Slowly pour the warm cream and Amarula mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to avoid cooking the eggs. Adding it gradually is key to achieving a creamy custard base. The result will smell divine and set the tone for your dessert.
Step 5: Bake in a water bath
Pour the custard evenly into the prepared ramekins. Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath ensures even cooking and a silky finish for the custards. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours (or overnight for the best results).
Step 6: Create the caramel layer
Just before serving, sprinkle a tablespoon of caster sugar evenly over each custard. Use a kitchen blowtorch to caramelize the sugar until it turns golden and crisp. If you don’t have a blowtorch, place the ramekins under a hot grill for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Enjoy the final moment
Tap through the crisp caramelized top to reveal the creamy, chocolatey Amarula custard underneath. This indulgent dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special.
Perfect occasions for Crème Brûlée Amarula
This Amarula dessert idea is incredibly versatile, whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or simply treating yourself to an indulgent evening at home. Pair it with freshly brewed South African rooibos tea or an espresso for an elevated experience.
For South Africans abroad, this creme brulee South Africa dish offers a nostalgic taste of home with every bite. It’s the perfect way to showcase your heritage and share a bit of South African culinary pride with your international friends and family.
Tips for success
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: For the best results, opt for high-quality dark chocolate and fresh cream.
- Prep Ahead: This is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare the custard the day before and caramelize the sugar topping just before serving.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Add a decorative touch with a dollop of whipped cream or a few fresh berries.
Bring a taste of South Africa home with an Amarula dessert
If you’re a South African living abroad and aching for a taste of home, this Amarula Crème Brûlée recipe is the perfect way to feel closer to your roots. Cook it for yourself or share it with your loved ones to spread the warmth of creme brulee South Africa abroad.
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