Fresh Peach Brûlée

Fresh Peach Brûlée Recipe from France with Light Brown Sugar and Lemon Juice

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Fresh Peach Brûlée is a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with a caramelized sugar topping. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing treat on a warm summer day.

History

The concept of brûlée, meaning "burnt" or "scorched" in French, dates back to the late 17th century. Originally, it referred to a dish with a sugar topping that was caramelized using a hot iron. Over time, the technique evolved to include the use of a kitchen torch to achieve the desired caramelization.

Ingredients

2 large fresh peaches, approximately 6 oz (180 g) each
2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
refrigerated butter-flavored cooking spray
4 tsp (20 ml) packed light brown sugar

How to prepare

Preheat the broiler.
Line a small baking pan with aluminum foil.
Halve, peel, and pit the peaches.
Lightly coat all sides of each half with cooking spray and sprinkle with some of the lemon juice.
Place in the prepared pan, cavity side up.
Using your fingers, sprinkle 1 tsp (5 ml) of the brown sugar into the cavity and around the top of each peach.
Broil about 4 inches from the source of heat for 1.5 to 2 minutes, until the sugar caramelizes and begins to glaze the peach.
Take care not to scorch the sugar.
Let cool for 1 minute, then serve in individual dessert dishes.

Variations

Try using nectarines or plums instead of peaches for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of rum or bourbon to the peaches before broiling for a boozy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe peaches for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the peaches under the broiler, as they can quickly go from caramelized to burnt.

- For a more intense flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg before broiling.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Peach Brûlée can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling is a quick and easy cooking technique that caramelizes the sugar topping on the peaches, creating a deliciously sweet and crunchy crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have light brown sugar on hand, you can use granulated sugar or honey as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Fresh Peach Brûlée is best served immediately after broiling, but you can prepare the peaches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to broil.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fresh Peach Brûlée in individual dessert dishes for an elegant presentation, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Fresh Peach Brûlée pairs well with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea for a sophisticated finish to any meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Fresh Peach Brûlée is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the broiler for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fresh Peach Brûlée contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fresh Peach Brûlée contains approximately 24 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fresh Peach Brûlée contains approximately 0 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fresh Peach Brûlée contains approximately 1 gram of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and dietary fiber.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Fresh Peach Brûlée is a low-calorie dessert that is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious treat.

Summary

Fresh Peach Brûlée is a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with a caramelized sugar topping. This dish is perfect for a light and refreshing treat that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Fresh Peach Brûlée. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the south. My neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, had invited me over for tea one afternoon, and as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping on Earl Grey, she began to tell me about her latest culinary creation.

"Have you ever tried Fresh Peach Brûlée, dear?" Mrs. Jenkins asked, a twinkle in her eye. I shook my head, intrigued by the unfamiliar name. She proceeded to explain how she had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations.

As she spoke, I could almost taste the sweet, caramelized peaches and creamy vanilla custard in my mind. Mrs. Jenkins went on to describe the process of making the dessert, from selecting the ripest peaches to carefully torching the sugar on top to create the signature crunchy brûlée topping.

I was captivated by her story and couldn't wait to try the recipe for myself. Mrs. Jenkins was kind enough to write it down for me, and I eagerly went home to gather the ingredients and begin my own culinary adventure.

The first step was selecting the perfect peaches. I made my way to the local farmer's market, where the sweet scent of ripe fruit filled the air. I carefully inspected each peach, feeling for firmness and checking for any bruising. I selected a handful of the juiciest peaches, eager to transform them into a delicious dessert.

Back in my own kitchen, I set to work peeling and slicing the peaches, their fragrant juices running down my fingers as I worked. I prepared the vanilla custard, whisking together eggs, sugar, and cream until smooth and velvety. The scent of vanilla filled the room, mingling with the sweet aroma of the peaches.

Once everything was ready, I carefully assembled the dessert, layering the peaches on top of the custard in individual ramekins. I sprinkled a generous amount of sugar over the top, then brought out my trusty kitchen torch to caramelize the sugar to a golden brown.

As the sugar crackled and melted under the heat of the torch, I couldn't help but smile in satisfaction. The aroma of caramelized sugar filled the kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of peaches and vanilla. I knew that I had created something truly special.

When the time came to taste my creation, I savored each spoonful of the creamy custard and tender peaches. The contrast of the smooth custard and crunchy brûlée topping was heavenly, and the fresh, ripe peaches added a burst of flavor that was truly unforgettable.

From that day on, Fresh Peach Brûlée became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I shared it with friends and family, who marveled at the unique combination of flavors and textures. Each time I made it, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the afternoon we had spent together, sharing stories and sipping tea in her cozy kitchen.

Over the years, I have continued to tweak and refine the recipe, adding my own personal touches and variations. Sometimes I add a splash of bourbon to the custard for a little extra kick, or substitute nectarines for peaches to change things up. But no matter how I prepare it, Fresh Peach Brûlée always brings back memories of that first time I saw the recipe and the magic of creating something delicious from scratch.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on all the recipes I have learned and mastered over the years, I am grateful for the legacy of Mrs. Jenkins and her Fresh Peach Brûlée. It is a reminder that the best recipes are those that are shared with love and passed down through generations, creating a connection that transcends time and space. And for that, I am truly thankful.