Sous Vide Crème Brûlée: Temperature & Time Guide
Crème brûlée is notoriously easy to curdle in a water bath oven. Sous vide at 176°F gives the same gentle, even heat with zero risk — just jars in the bath, then a torch.
Our top pick
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
Free shipping on eligible Amazon items · 30-day easy returns · you earn on anything bought within 24h
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| Anova Precision Cooker 3.0 | A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking. | View → |
| Instant-read meat thermometer | Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork. | View → |
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
Editor’s PickA circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
- + On-device temperature control
- + 1100W heats fast
- + Recipe library for temps
- − Premium price
- − Some app features paywalled
Free shipping on eligible items
Use one to verify your water bath and spot-check the finish — a $15 probe removes all guesswork.
- + Verifies actual temperature
- + Cheap insurance
- − Not needed if your circulator is accurate
Free shipping on eligible items
Buying advice
1) Whisk egg yolks, sugar, cream, and vanilla (don't over-mix — no bubbles). 2) Pour into small jars, seal, and cook at 176°F for 60 minutes. 3) Chill 2+ hours. 4) Sprinkle sugar evenly and torch or broil until caramelized. Rest 2 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Why cook crème brûlée sous vide?
The exact 176°F (80°C) temperature sets the custard perfectly — no water-bath oven babysitting, no curdling.
Can I use any jars?
Small mason jars with tight lids work; leave a little headroom and don't over-tighten.
How long do they keep?
Chilled and sealed, 4-5 days — torch the sugar just before serving.
Ready to cook perfectly?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
Anova Precision Cooker 3.0
A circulator with an on-device screen makes it easy to dial these exact temps without touching your phone — our top pick for precision cooking.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Want exact temps and times? Use our free sous vide calculators.