Italian Recipes

Grana Padano Crème Brûlée: A Savory Twist on a Classic Appetizer

Published
Feb 17, 2025
Reading time
2 min
Collection
Italian Recipes
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Category: Appetizer
Serves: 4

Ingredients:

Ingredient Quantity
Fresh liquid cream 300g
Grana Padano DOP 100g
Egg yolks 3
Nutmeg to taste
Sugar 1 teaspoon

Instructions:

  1. Begin by heating the fresh cream in a small saucepan over medium heat, being careful not to let it boil.

  2. While the cream is warming, crack the egg yolks into a bowl and add a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.

  3. Once the cream reaches just under a boil, take a small amount of it and slowly pour it into the egg yolks, whisking continuously to temper the mixture. Gradually add the rest of the warm cream while continuing to whisk.

  4. Grate 50g of Grana Padano DOP and stir it into the cream and egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully incorporated.

  5. Divide the mixture evenly into four individual cocotte dishes, each measuring 9 cm across the top, 7 cm across the bottom, and with a height of 4 cm.

  6. Place the dishes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the crème brûlée has set with a slight jiggle in the center.

  7. While the crème brûlée is baking, take the remaining 50g of Grana Padano DOP and place it in a small bowl. Add the teaspoon of sugar and mix thoroughly.

  8. Once the crème brûlée is done, sprinkle the cheese-sugar mixture evenly on top of each portion and return them to the oven for a few more minutes to slightly melt the topping.

  9. Allow the crème brûlée to cool down before serving. Once it has cooled to a comfortable temperature, serve immediately and enjoy the rich, savory flavor of Grana Padano in this unique twist on a classic dessert.

Tips for the Perfect Crème Brûlée:

  • For a smooth texture, be sure to strain the mixture before baking to remove any potential lumps.
  • Adjust the level of nutmeg to your liking for a hint of warmth and spice.
  • Ensure the crème brûlée is slightly undercooked in the center to achieve a custard-like consistency that will set perfectly.

Enjoy this savory Grana Padano crème brûlée as a delightful appetizer that is sure to impress your guests with its rich, creamy texture and unique flavors!