Crème brûlées are one of my favorite desserts for their decadence, their versatility, and their simplicity.  Basically a baked custard, a creme brulee is made even more decadent with a sprinkling of sugar on top that is either broiled until crisp or torched with a kitchen torch to get the crunchy topping.  In terms of versatility, once you have mastered the basic custard recipe you can add in whatever flavorings you are craving.  This recipe for example adds in a touch of pure vanilla extract and mashed sweet potatoes for a seasonal and healthy flavor component.  In terms of their simplicity, I mean both because they really are simple to assemble but also, a classic baked custard relies on just a few quality ingredients: cream, egg yolks, salt and sugar.

(To view this recipe, click on the following link: http://www.finecooking.com/recipes/sweet-potato-creme-brulee.aspx)

Tagged: baked custard, creme brulee, custard, dessert, Fine Cooking, sweet potato creme brulee, sweet potatoes, vanilla extract