Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Crème Caramel

If you’re after a show-stopping dessert that looks elegant but only uses a handful of ingredients, this Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Crème Caramel is a dream come true. With silky-smooth custard, golden caramel, and a zingy passion fruit finish, it’s simple, impressive, and totally irresistible. I made it for a dinner party and everyone thought I’d bought it from a fancy patisserie! (inspired by Jamie Oliver)

Ingredients Needed

• 160g caster sugar
• 1 vanilla pod
• 600ml whole milk
• 6 large eggs
• 3 ripe passion fruit

How To Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Crème Caramel

1. Step 1: Make the Caramel
   Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Sprinkle 100g of caster sugar into a non-stick frying pan with 3 tablespoons of water. Heat over medium, swirling gently (no stirring!) until the sugar turns a deep chestnut brown—this should take about 8 minutes. Quickly divide the caramel among 6 ramekins and set aside.
2. Step 2: Infuse the Milk
   Split the vanilla pod, scrape out the seeds, and add both seeds and pod to a saucepan with the whole milk. Heat gently until just below boiling point, then turn off the heat and let it infuse.
3. Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 whole eggs, 4 yolks, and the remaining 60g of caster sugar until pale and creamy—about 1 minute.
4. Step 4: Combine Custard
   Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture a little at a time to prevent scrambling. Remove the vanilla pod and skim off any foam that rises to the top.
5. Step 5: Bake in Water Bath
   Pour the custard into the ramekins over the set caramel. Place the ramekins in a deep roasting tray and carefully pour boiling water into the tray to come halfway up the sides. Bake for 30 minutes, or until just set. A knife inserted should come out clean.
6. Step 6: Cool and Chill
   Let the crème caramels cool in the water bath, then transfer to the fridge, covered, for at least 4 hours—or overnight for best results.
7. Step 7: Serve
   To serve, dip the ramekins in hot water for a minute to loosen, run a knife around the edges, and turn out onto a plate. Squeeze half a passion fruit over each for a fruity twist.

Why I Love This Recipe

This is one of those desserts that makes you feel like a pro baker—even though it’s surprisingly easy. The texture is silky and luxurious, the caramel is beautifully bitter-sweet, and the passion fruit gives it just the right punch of acidity. Honestly, I can’t believe this is only five ingredients.

Recipe Tips

• Swirl, don’t stir, the caramel: Prevents crystallization for a smooth finish.
• Temper slowly: Whisk the hot milk into the eggs gradually to avoid curdling.
• Use a proper water bath: Ensures gentle, even baking without overcooking the edges.
• Cool in the bath: Prevents sudden temperature changes and condensation.
• Carefully unmold: Warm the ramekin and use a knife to loosen the sides for a clean release.

How To Store Leftovers

Store any leftover crème caramels in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to 3 days. Serve cold or let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use vanilla extract instead of a pod?
  Yes, use 1 tsp of high-quality vanilla extract if you don’t have a pod.
• Do I have to use passion fruit?
  Nope! It adds brightness, but you can skip it or swap with orange zest or berries.
• Can I make it ahead?
  Absolutely—this is a great make-ahead dessert. Chill overnight for the best texture.
• Why is my caramel too hard?
  You may have overcooked it or let it cool too long before pouring. It should be pourable but thick when hot.
• What size ramekins should I use?
  Standard 150ml (5 oz) ramekins work perfectly for even setting and portioning.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 256 kcal
• Fat: 10.1g
• Saturated Fat: 4.2g
• Protein: 10.6g
• Carbohydrates: 32.9g
• Sugars: 32.9g
• Salt: 0.3g
• Fiber: 0g

Try More Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Recipes:

• 5 Ingredients Apple Tart
• 5 Ingredients Jools’ Chocolate Dreams
• 5 Ingredients Pear Dessert