Savory Crème Brûlée with Goat Cheese & Fig Chili Jam

An elegant twist on a dessert classic — but it’s not sweet.

Behind that golden crackle lies a creamy goat cheese custard, finished with a fiery spoonful of fig.

Ingredients

For the Goat Cheese Custard

150 g fresh goat cheese

200 ml heavy cream

2 large egg yolks

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Pinch of salt

Pinch of white pepper

For the Caramelized Sugar Top

2 tbsp granulated sugar (fine)

For the Spicy Fig Jam

4 tbsp fig jam

½ tsp chili flakes or chili paste

½ tsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions

Prepare the jam:
In a small pan, heat fig jam with chili flakes and balsamic vinegar. Stir until slightly thickened, then cool.

Make the savory custard:
Preheat oven to 150°C (300°F). Blend goat cheese, cream, egg yolks, thyme, salt, and white pepper until smooth. Strain through a sieve for extra silkiness.

Bake in ramekins:
Pour mixture into 2 small ramekins. Place ramekins in a baking dish and add hot water halfway up the sides. Bake for 25–30 min, until set but wobbly in the center.

Chill and caramelize:
Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle 1 tbsp sugar on each and torch until deep amber and crisp.

Serve with jam:
Add a small spoonful of fig-chili jam on the side or directly on top. Crack and enjoy the savory surprise.

Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Servings: 2
Difficulty: Medium

Why You’ll Love It
• A sophisticated appetizer or cheese course in disguise
• The balance of smoky sweetness, creamy tang, and heat is unforgettable

Try it with a black pepper caramel top for a spicy edge.
Pairs beautifully with a dry rosé or port for contrast.