Indulge in Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée Bliss

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s a delightful surprise waiting in the kitchen, and it comes in the form of a creamy, caramelized dessert that feels both elegant and comforting. Picture this: the rich aroma of orange zest mingling with the warm, inviting scent of cardamom as they infuse into smooth, velvety cream. This Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée is not just any indulgence; it s a transcendent experience that transforms an ordinary evening into something extraordinary.

I often find myself returning to this recipe whenever I crave a special treat that s easy to whip up yet impressively sophisticated. With just a few simple ingredients, you ll create a creamy custard with a hint of citrus brightness and a touch of aromatic spice. Whether you re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself after a long day, this dessert is sure to be a conversation starter.

So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to wow your taste buds let s dive into the delightful process of making this Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée!

Why is Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée special?

Irresistible Flavor: The unique pairing of orange and cardamom adds a refreshing twist to the classic Crème Brûlée, offering a delightful explosion of taste.

Elegant Presentation: This dessert looks stunning, topped with a golden caramelized layer, making it perfect for impressing guests during any gathering.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you ll be surprised at how straightforward this recipe is even for beginner cooks!

Versatile Serve: Whether for a festive occasion or a cozy night in, this crème brûlée fits seamlessly into any scenario.

Crowd-Pleasing: It s a famous dessert that will undoubtedly gather compliments and spark joy around the table, making it worth every effort.

Feeling adventurous? Don t forget to check out our guide on how to prepare classic Crème Brûlée for more inspiration!

Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée Ingredients

For the Crème Brûlée

• 330 ml double cream This rich and velvety base is essential for that creamy texture we all love in crème brûlée.
• 4 eggs Use only the yolks in this recipe to create a wonderfully smooth custard.
• 70 g caster sugar Offers the perfect sweetness and helps create a lovely caramelized layer when baking.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds a warm, aromatic depth to complement the citrus and spice.
• 1 orange (juice and zest) The zest brings vibrant flavor while the juice brightens the dish, adding character to the Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée.
• 3 cardamom pods Infuse your cream with these fragrant pods for a unique and aromatic twist.

For Serving

• Extra caster sugar Sprinkle on top before caramelizing to achieve that perfect crackling layer we can t resist.

With these simple ingredients, you re just a few steps away from creating a dessert that will leave your guests in awe!

How to Make Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée

1. Preheat your oven to 150 °C (300 °F). This ensures a gentle baking environment for your custards, allowing them to set perfectly without overcooking.

2. Simmer the double cream in a saucepan, adding 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Carefully bring it to a simmer while whisking continuously; this will keep the cream from scorching and help blend the flavors beautifully.

3. Infuse the cream with 1 orange s zest and 3 cardamom pods. Stir these ingredients into the simmering cream, allowing their delightful aromas to wake up and enrich the mixture for about 5 minutes.

4. Whisk together the 4 egg yolks and 70 g of caster sugar in a separate bowl until well combined. This will create a smooth paste that will blend wonderfully with the hot cream.

5. Combine the hot cream mixture with the egg and sugar mixture gradually. Slowly pour in the cream while whisking to prevent the yolks from scrambling. Once combined, add the orange juice and give it another good whisk.

6. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into ramekins or serving dishes to ensure a silky smooth custard free of lumps and cardamom bits.

7. Prepare for baking by placing the ramekins in a roasting tin. Fill the tin with water until it reaches about three-quarters up the sides of the ramekins, creating a gentle steam that helps with cooking.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center. It should be slightly pulling away from the sides, creating a luscious texture.

9. Cool the ramekins, then refrigerate them overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the desserts to set firmly, enhancing the final taste.

10. Caramelize the top just before serving by sprinkling a thin layer of extra caster sugar on top. Use a hot grill or a blow torch until it forms a golden, crisp crust that adds a delightful crunch.

Optional: Serve with a twist of orange zest for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious dessert with minimal last-minute effort! You can prepare the crème brûlée mixture (steps 1-6) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps and refrigerate the ramekins overnight after straining the mixture. This not only enhances the flavors but also ensures a silky texture. When you re ready to serve, just bake the chilled custards (step 8), cool them slightly, and top with sugar before caramelizing for that irresistibly crispy finish. Your guests will rave about the results just as delicious and stunning as if you made it fresh!

Helpful Tricks for Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée

Avoid Scrambling: Keep the cream hot but not boiling when mixing with the egg yolks. This gentle approach prevents scrambling and yields a silky custard.

Infuse Well: Allow the cardamom and orange zest to steep in the cream longer for a more pronounced flavor, enhancing the taste of your Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée.

Check for Doneness: Gently shake the ramekins. If the center jiggles slightly like gelatin, it s perfectly set and ready to cool.

Cooling Time: Don t rush the chilling process; letting the crème brûlée sit overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a delicious dessert.

Crackling Top: For the best caramelized surface, sprinkle caster sugar evenly and use a blow torch for a quick caramelization, achieving a crunchy finish you ll love.

Storage Tips for Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée

Fridge: Store your Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and creamy.

Freezer: While it s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the uncaramelized custard mixture for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: Avoid reheating after caramelization, as this can melt the sugar crust. If you ve made extra uncaramelized crème brûlée, simply re-chill it after thawing for a delightful dessert.

Serving: For best results, caramelize the sugar just before serving for that perfect crunchy top this enhances your dessert s appeal and keeps it fresh!

What to Serve with Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée?

Imagine ending a delightful meal with a romantic touch of creamy custard it s the perfect encore for your dinner party.

• Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries and blueberries adds a pop of color and complements the sweetness of the brûlée beautifully. The tartness of fresh berries contrasts wonderfully with the smooth texture, creating a refreshing balance after a rich dessert.

• Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the decadence of a warm chocolate lava cake. The richness of chocolate enhances the sweet notes of the crème brûlée, making for a truly indulgent pairing.

• Mint-Infused Tea: A soothing mint tea clears the palate perfectly after enjoying dessert. Its herbal freshness harmonizes with the spices of cardamom while providing a lovely aromatic finish to your dining experience.

• Fruit Sorbet: A light and fruity sorbet brings a refreshing contrast to the rich custard. Its icy texture and bright flavors cleanse the palate, making it a delightful complement to your dessert.

• Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy, buttery shortbread cookies offer a delightful textural contrast. Their simplicity allows the flavours of the crème brûlée to shine, while adding a delightful crunch to each bite.

• Sparkling Dessert Wine: A glass of sparkling dessert wine elevates your crème brûlée experience with effervescence and sweetness. Its bubbles enhance the luxurious feel of your dessert, making it feel extra special.

• Caramelized Banana: Top sliced bananas in a buttery caramel sauce for a warm, sweet side that enhances the flavor profile of the crème brûlée. It brings an extra layer of decadence to the dish, delighting your taste buds.

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla bean ice cream is a classic pairing. Its creaminess complements the velvety texture of the crème brûlée, and its coolness sings alongside the warm, caramelized top.

With these perfect pairing suggestions, you ll create a meal to remember, leaving everyone at the table craving more!

Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée Variations

Get ready to make this creamy delight your own with exciting twists and flavors!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute double cream with coconut cream for a luscious, dairy-free version that still packs a punch of flavor.
• Gourmet Chocolate: Add 50g of melted dark chocolate to the mixture for a lavish chocolate-orange combination. The richness of chocolate will create a dreamy contrast with the citrus zest.
• Nutty Touch: Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped pistachios or almonds into the custard mix for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This adds an extra layer of texture and sophistication.
• Spicy Kick: Enhance the cardamom flavor with a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for a warming spice note. It will beautifully complement the creamy custard and offer a unique twist.
• Fruit-Infused: Replace orange juice with another citrus such as blood orange or grapefruit for a fruity surprise. These variations bring their unique flavors while keeping the base delightful.
• Herbal Essence: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during the infusion process for an aromatic, herbaceous twist that s incredibly refreshing. It might just become your new favorite!
• Liqueur Flavoring: For an adult version, incorporate a splash of Grand Marnier or Amaretto into the custard before baking. This adds depth and a lovely kick that elevates the overall experience.
• Latte Layer: Blend coffee or espresso (about 1-2 tablespoons) into the custard for a café-style crème brûlée that will awaken your senses. It s a perfect way to combine dessert and coffee love in one bite.

Feel free to experiment with these variations each twist brings its enchanting charm to this classic dessert!

Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée Recipe FAQs

What kind of orange should I use for the crème brûlée?
Absolutely! I recommend using a sweet, juicy orange for the best flavor, like a Navel or Valencia orange. The zest and juice will provide a refreshing citrus note that pairs beautifully with the cardamom.

How should I store leftover crème brûlée?
Store your Orange & Cardamom Crème Brûlée in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid covering the ramekins if they still have the caramelized sugar on top, as this can make the crust soggy.

Can I freeze crème brûlée?
Very! To freeze, chill the uncaramelized custard mixture in the ramekins or another airtight container for up to 1 month. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw the dessert in the fridge overnight. Just remember to caramelize the sugar after thawing for that perfect crunchy top.

Why did my crème brûlée turn out grainy?
If you find your custard grainy, it s often because the egg yolks were cooked too quickly. To prevent this, heat the cream gently and pour it gradually into the yolks while whisking constantly. This helps maintain that silky smooth texture we re all looking for.

Is it safe for pets to eat crème brûlée?
Not at all! Crème brûlée contains ingredients, like sugar and heavy cream, that aren t suitable for pets. It s best to keep this delicious treat just for yourself and the family our four-legged friends will have to stick to their own treats!

How can I avoid a watery texture in my crème brûlée?
To ensure the perfect texture, never let your custard mixture sit at room temperature for too long before baking. Also, make sure the water bath in the roasting tin stays steady. A gentle bake will help the custard set properly without becoming watery.