How to Use a Creme Brulee Torch

The skill needed from a cook is different in every dish. When chopping veggies, for instance, using and positioning delicate knives are crucial as it calls for precision. A dish like a soufflé calls for the exact control and quantity of ingredients. And to create such a masterpiece, using a culinary torch is a relevant extraordinary skill.

How should you torch a crème Brulee?

The skill needed from a cook is different in every dish. When chopping veggies, for instance, using and positioning delicate knives are crucial as it calls for precision.

A dish like a soufflé calls for the exact control and quantity of ingredients. And to create such a masterpiece, using a culinary torch is a relevant extraordinary skill.

This is done after the crème mixture is chilled and settled in a smooth blend consistency. Setting the crème Brulee on fire is the final touch of the delicious Crème Brûlée and it is never complete without it!

The birthplace of this custard-like dish was claimed by many communities. We cannot tell the exact source of this dish as it has been a dispute too many races. Nevertheless, we surely can tell how you can best achieve that sugar coating. Shall we start?

Is torching the only way to achieve the crust?

There is absolutely another way! If you have a broiler available, you can put and heat the custard-like dessert until the coating caramelize. However, you might end up heating the sugar too much which can be unsavory when it is burnt. Although crème brûlée is directly translated as burnt cream, it doesn’t literally mean to overcook the whole dish. So, be careful when you opt for a grill or a broiler.

The broiler method can actually work fine as long as you’re mindful of time. You must check frequently to avoid a burnt dessert. If you’re comfortable to fire up in the kitchen, another way is to flambé! However, we do not encourage this method because it separates from the classic age-old ingredients.

Still, torching is the easiest way to get that lovely sugar crust!

It gives you that consistent sugar topping and you can take more control of it, rather than any other methods.

The torch we suggest

First of all, make sure to get the torch you can get along with. The torch must be appropriate for the purpose. Trusty culinary torches have multiple safety features like a child-proof lock, full-bodied ignition switch, or finger guard.

These features do not guarantee the safety of a hundred percent as torches are hazards once used erroneously. Make sure to keep your torching zone free from flammable things to avoid unwanted ignition.

Many torches have a built-in tank and use butane gas as fuel—which can be bought from hardware stores. The usual torches can be fired by directly fitting to the fuel container.

The right way to use a torch for Crème Brulee

Let’s jump into the exciting part!

At this point, the custard must be chilled enough in the fridge and free from moisture. Here’s a detailed procedure to guide you:

• Dust the top evenly with sugar.
• Try and familiarize yourself with the torch for a while before using it to the crème Brulee.
• Adjust the knob or switch to your control. There is actually no specific strength and distance required for this. However, we suggest starting in low heat and short distance as it will prevent burnt sugar. Remember that the goal is to make the sugar become fizzy and transition its color gradually. You are looking for a golden caramel coating.
• Let it cool The crust will be fully ready in no time.
• You can now serve and enjoy the crème brûlée as soon as the coating solidifies.

The overall duration cannot be exactly calculated due to our personal preferences for caramelizing. Although it should not take a while to top every bowl of crème, it should no be rushed as well.

Make extra caution!

The fuel capacities of culinary torches are inconsistent. Most reputable torches can operate continuously for about an hour if there is enough fuel. Check the manufacturer’s guide to know how long can you expect the torch to function. The fuel gauge is almost mandatory as it is your security as it will indicate the capacity of the fuel inside to make sure you have enough to finish the caramelization process.

Many kinds of torch ignition are widely available in the market. One most common is a button type which is very simple and will serve the majority of the torches. Some of them call for a trigger to proceed with the period process. In an ideal world, however, we suggest the torch with a switch that can be fixed to easily activate a continuous blaze and disable once done.

Conclusion

Torching as a final touch of a delicious dish is really an exciting task although it can be dangerous. It is much easier to torch crème brûlée than caramelizing with other methods. The strategies we have suggested ensure a safe culinary torching; it will be a nature to you if you take control of your torch and stick to the guide accordingly.