When it comes to entertaining, presentation is everything. That’s why serving individual, portion-sized dishes is a great way to impress your guests without breaking a sweat. Enter: the humble ramekin! These small, ceramic baking vessels are perfect for whipping up a batch of delicious, bite-sized treats that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic desserts like crème brûlée and cheesecake, to savory dishes like mini quiches and spinach and artichoke dip, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to ramekin recipes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering ideas that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Classic Crème Brûlée
Rich, creamy custard base topped with a caramelized sugar crust, this classic French dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Strain custard into a clean bowl to remove any egg solids.
6. Pour into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
9. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin.
11. Caramelize sugar with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including cooling time)
Individual Chocolate Lava Cakes
Elevate your dessert game with these Individual Chocolate Lava Cakes, perfect for a sweet treat or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Whisk together eggs, butter, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the melted chocolate.
7. Pour batter into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain slightly jiggly.
9. Let cool in pans for 1 minute, then invert onto plates.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Cheesecakes with Berry Compote
These bite-sized cheesecakes are a delightful dessert option, perfect for parties or special occasions. Paired with a sweet and tangy berry compote, they’re sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the cheesecakes:
– 12 mini muffin liners
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the berry compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into mini muffin liners.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter among mini muffin liners.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until set.
7. For the berry compote, combine berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Serve cheesecakes with warm berry compote spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Herb Bread Pudding
Transform stale bread into a rich, aromatic pudding infused with the flavors of garlic and herbs. This recipe is perfect for serving as a side dish or using as a base for soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss until the bread is evenly coated.
3. Add chicken broth and Parmesan cheese; mix until the bread is well saturated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
A classic party favorite that’s sure to please! This creamy dip is packed with the flavors of spinach, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.5 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a 9×13-inch serving dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Serve with tortilla chips, pita bread, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Eggs with Cream and Herbs
Elevate your breakfast game with this simple yet indulgent recipe that combines the richness of cream, the freshness of herbs, and the comfort of baked eggs. Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix heavy cream and chopped herbs.
4. Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter.
5. Divide the egg mixture among the ramekins.
6. Pour the cream and herb mixture over the eggs.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with additional chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Shepherd’s Pie
Mini Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Summary: A bite-sized twist on the classic comfort food, this mini version is perfect for parties or snacks. These individual pies are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked ground beef (or turkey)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup mashed potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine ground beef, peas and carrots, flour, and beef broth. Mix well.
3. Grease mini muffin tin cups with butter.
4. Divide the meat mixture evenly among the cups.
5. Top each cup with mashed potatoes, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Servings: 12-16 mini pies
Lemon Curd with Meringue Topping
Brighten up your dessert game with this tangy-sweet lemon curd, topped with a fluffy meringue that’s sure to impress. This classic combination is perfect for a special occasion or a everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt to taste
Meringue Topping:
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, lemon juice, and butter until smooth.
3. Add egg yolks and whisk until combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and salt.
6. For the meringue topping, beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Spread lemon curd into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
8. Top with meringue mixture, spreading evenly to cover the curd.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Individual Chicken Pot Pies
These individual chicken pot pies are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a charming brunch, they’re easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, milk, and thyme; stir until the mixture thickens.
4. Roll out puff pastry to about 1/8 inch thickness. Spoon the filling onto one half of each sheet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Molten Caramel Apple Crisp
A sweet and satisfying dessert that combines the warmth of caramel with the crunch of a crispy oat topping.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup molten caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Drizzle molten caramel sauce over the oat topping.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Parmesan Soufflés
Elevate your dinner party with these creamy, cheesy, and impressive soufflés that combine the flavors of parmesan, parsley, and garlic. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter six 6-ounce ramekins and coat with grated parmesan cheese.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, egg yolks, heavy cream, parsley, and garlic. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the mixture into prepared ramekins, filling them 3/4 of the way.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Tiramisu Cups
Elevate your dessert game with these miniature versions of the classic Italian treat, perfect for parties or special occasions. These bite-sized cups pack a punch of flavor and are surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers, cut into quarters
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together coffee and sugar until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger quarter into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. To assemble, place a ladyfinger quarter in the bottom of a mini cup or ramekin. Top with a spoonful of the mascarpone mixture.
5. Repeat steps 2-4, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assemble and refrigerate)
Baked Brie with Honey and Nuts
Elevate your entertaining with this sweet and savory Baked Brie recipe, perfectly paired with a drizzle of honey and crunch of nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 wheel of brie cheese (8 oz)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the brie wheel from its packaging and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Dot the top of the cheese with the softened butter.
4. Drizzle the honey over the butter, allowing it to pool slightly in the center of the cheese.
5. Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the honey.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges are lightly browned.
7. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
8. Serve warm, ideally with crackers, fruit, or bread.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Individual Bread Puddings
Transform stale bread into a decadent dessert with these individual bread puddings. Perfect for a cozy night in or a dinner party, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until evenly coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
5. Pour wet ingredients over dry mixture and stir until bread is well coated.
6. Divide mixture among 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
French Onion Soup Gratin
French Onion Soup Gratin: A Twist on a Classic
Elevate your French onion soup game with this creamy gratin recipe, featuring caramelized onions, crispy bread, and melted cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices baguette, toasted and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat for 20-25 minutes.
3. Add butter and flour; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously; bring to simmer.
5. Stir in Gruyère and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Arrange toasted bread cubes in a baking dish. Pour the soup mixture over the bread.
7. Top with additional grated cheese (optional). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Mini Quiches Lorraine
These bite-sized quiches are a classic French recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With their flaky pastry crust, creamy filling, and caramelized onions, they’re sure to disappear quickly at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup diced onion
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange diced onion on one half of each pastry piece, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape. Press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg mixture and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillets
Warm Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillets Recipe Summary:
A classic cookie recipe gets a cozy twist with this warm and gooey chocolate chip skillet dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 1/2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Pour batter into a 9-inch oven-safe skillet.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Custards
These creamy custards are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, perfect for a cozy fall evening or holiday gathering. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying these indulgent treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm custard mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or cups.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Elevate your entertaining game with these 18 delicious ramekin recipes. From classic crème brûlée and individual chocolate lava cakes to savory parmesan soufflés and mini quiches Lorraine, there’s something for everyone. Impress your guests with garlic herb bread pudding, spinach and artichoke dip, or baked eggs with cream and herbs. Or, try your hand at individual chicken pot pies, molten caramel apple crisp, or warm chocolate chip cookie skillets. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a cozy gathering, these ramekin recipes are sure to delight.
