When food falls between breakfast and dessert, it can confuse things. So I say, just go with it. This Easy Vanilla Yogurt Brulee is the fanciest breakfast (or dessert) you never knew you needed- until now! If you love creme brulee from your favorite French restaurant then this recipe is for you.
So what is yogurt brulee? Just add sugar to your favorite vanilla yogurt, and caramelize the top to a crispy, {need a spoon to crack it} topping -that melts in your mouth with every bite. The best part about it? No eggs, baking, or water baths are needed.
I am no stranger to a culinary torch, and this is not the first time I torched my breakfast. This yogurt brulee was inspired by my oatmeal recipe, and it probably won't be my last flaming meal. All you need are a few ingredients and some fire to make this easy vanilla yogurt brulee showstopper for your next brunch gathering.
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Ingredients
Here is what you will need to make this yogurt creme brulee dupe.
- Greek yogurt (or vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt)
- Vanilla paste or extract
- Sugar- White granulated or superfine (castor sugar)
Full ingredient list and instructions are located in the recipe card.
Equipment
You will need a culinary torch for this recipe. Unfortunately, a broiler won't work here since it will turn the yogurt into a gloppy mess. I love this one on Amazon.
Instructions
Safety first! Be sure to follow the instructions for your kitchen torch. Use your favorite vanilla yogurt or make it yourself by mixing plain Greek yogurt and a little vanilla paste or extract.
Add the yogurt to a shallow ramekin or creme brullee dish. Cover with sugar.
Caramelize the sugar with a culinary torch by slowly sweeping the flame back and forth until brown spots appear and the sugar begins to harden.
👩🍳Expert tip
For best results, stick with a thick Greek yogurt with at least 2% fat and brulee right before serving.
Variations and toppings
Feel free to use any flavored yogurt you like.
- Fresh fruit - Top with fresh fruit to balance out the sweetness. Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries are some of my faves.
- Fresh mint - Garnish with fresh mint for a vibrant pop of color.
- Coconut extract- Swap out the vanilla extract for coconut and top with flaked coconut and fresh pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Granola- Add texture with this berry granola or this vanilla coconut variety.
- Muesli- Top your yogurt with the decadent chocolate muesli.
Storage
The best time to caramelize the sugar is right before you are ready to eat it. Doing it too far in advance will cause the sugar to liquefy and bleed into the yogurt. However, if you must do it in advance, I have found that once you brulee your sugar, you can get away with about 4-6 hours in the fridge (uncovered) and still maintain that crunch.
FAQ
The broiler method doesn't work with this brulee, because the heat from the oven will melt the yogurt. Invest in a kitchen torch, it is so worth it!
Perfect pairings
Did you make this recipe? I would love to hear about it! Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating with a comment right below the recipe card. If you snap a photo of your creation, don't forget to tag me on Instagram @brunchandbatter.
📖Recipe
Easy Vanilla Yogurt Brulee
Equipment
- 1 culinary kitchen torch
- 4 creme brulee dishes or small ramekins
Ingredients
- 16 oz 2% Greek yogurt *or use vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 4 tablespoon granulated sugar, plus more if needed
- fresh fruit for topping optional
Instructions
- Mix the vanilla and the yogurt. To make this extra easy, use vanilla Greek yogurt.16 oz 2% Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Divide the yogurt among four 6 or 8-ounce creme brulee ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in the freezer, uncovered for about 15 minutes to firm the tops. This will make the sugar easier to caramelize.
- Remove from the freezer and sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar (or more to cover) over each of the ramekins. Caramelize the sugar with a culinary torch by slowly sweeping the flame back and forth until brown spots appear and the sugar begins to harden. Top with fresh fruit, if desired. Serve immediately.4 tablespoon granulated sugar, plus more if needed, fresh fruit for topping
Notes
Nutrition*
*Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. Nutrition information can vary depending on many factors, such as products used, measurements and substitutions, therefore it is recommended that you obtain nutritional calculations based on your own finished recipe.
Terry says
Omg, I tried this with my leftover yogurt, and it was really good!
Jennifer says
I'm so glad you liked it!
frank says
i love creme brulee and this is one of the best i’ve had. easy to make too
Jennifer says
Love that you loved it!