When it comes to cooking, there’s something special about serving up individual portions that are both delicious and visually appealing. That’s where ramekins come in – these small, ceramic dishes are perfect for baking, cooking, or presenting a variety of sweet and savory treats. From classic desserts like crème brûlée to hearty main courses like mini shepherd’s pie, there are countless ways to use ramekins in your kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different recipes that showcase the versatility and charm of these little dishes.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a new way to cook for yourself, these ramekin recipes are sure to impress. From decadent desserts like individual chocolate lava cakes to savory treats like garlic herb bread pudding, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Classic Crème Brûlée
A rich and creamy dessert that’s sure to impress, classic crème brûlée is a timeless treat that combines velvety custard with a caramelized sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60 g) 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 well combined.
3. Add heavy cream and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Place ramekins in a large baking dish and add hot water to come halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
7. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
8. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the top of each ramekin.
9. Caramelize sugar with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Individual Chocolate Lava Cakes
These individual chocolate lava cakes are the perfect treat for a solo indulgence or a romantic evening for two. Moist, gooey centers surrounded by crispy edges will satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Butter four 6-ounce ramekins or small cups.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
4. In a separate bowl, melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Whisk together eggs, melted chocolate, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into prepared ramekins, filling to the top.
7. Bake for 12-13 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in ramekins for 1 minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-13 minutes
Mini Cheesecakes with Berry Compote
This recipe combines the richness of cheesecake with the sweetness of fresh berries, all in bite-sized portions. Perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 12 large eggs, separated
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs and melted butter, press into mini muffin tin cups.
3. Make the cheesecakes: Beat eggs and sugar until combined, then add cream cheese, sour cream, and vanilla. Pour into crust-lined cups.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Allow to cool completely before serving with fresh berry compote (simply mix berries with a little sugar and lemon juice).
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Herb Bread Pudding
A savory twist on traditional bread pudding, this garlic herb version combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and fresh herbs with crispy bread and melted cheese. Perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, roasted (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, roasted garlic, parsley, thyme, and cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Pour over bread mixture; toss until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Note: Roast garlic by preheating oven to 400°F. Cut the top off of 2 cloves, place in foil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft. Squeeze out of skin; mince before using.
Spinach and Cheese Soufflé
Elevate your dinner party with this creamy and indulgent Spinach and Cheese Soufflé, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter and milk until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Eggs with Cream and Herbs
This recipe combines the richness of cream with the simplicity of baked eggs, all wrapped up with a fragrant herb bundle. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk lightly.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, butter, parsley, and chives until well combined.
4. Pour the cream mixture over the eggs and stir gently to combine.
5. Pour the egg mixture into 4 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mini Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe serves up individual portions of creamy, savory goodness that are perfect for snacking or as part of a larger meal. Mini Shepherd’s Pies are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6-8 mini puff pastry cups (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, chopped scallions, and/or sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon.
3. Add peas and carrots, flour, beef broth, and milk. Stir until mixture thickens.
4. Roll out puff pastry cups and fill each with the meat mixture.
5. Dot tops with butter and add optional toppings.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
This Italian-inspired dessert is a classic treat that’s sure to please any palate. With the warmth of vanilla and the creaminess of panna cotta, this recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and vanilla bean.
3. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl to remove the vanilla bean.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large baking dish. Refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration required)
Lemon Curd with Meringue Topping
This classic dessert combines the tangy sweetness of lemon curd with a fluffy meringue topping, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Meringue topping ingredients: 3 large egg whites, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and lemon juice.
2. Add the melted butter and whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the grated lemon zest.
5. Allow the curd to cool slightly before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Beat egg whites until frothy, then gradually add sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
7. Spoon the cooled lemon curd into individual serving dishes or a large baking dish. Top with meringue, spreading evenly.
8. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the meringue is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes (lemon curd) + 10-15 minutes (meringue topping)
Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful twist on the classic Caprese salad, featuring juicy portobello mushrooms as the star of the show. Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato come together in a delightful union that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps cleaned
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the Caprese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four mushrooms.
4. Drizzle tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Custard
This creamy custard is infused with the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice, perfect for a chilly fall evening or as a unique dessert for Thanksgiving. The combination of rich cream, sweet pumpkin, and warm spices will leave your taste buds feeling grateful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in pumpkin puree.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/2 cup of the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
5. Pour the egg yolk mixture into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Strain the custard into a clean bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese Bites
Elevate your snack game with these indulgent baked mac and cheese bites that combine the comfort of a classic macaroni dish with the convenience of bite-sized treats. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add melted butter and beaten egg; mix until a dough forms.
4. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough into balls, about 1-inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place mac and cheese bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Individual Tiramisu
Elevate your dessert game with these individual tiramisu treats, perfect for a special occasion or a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Cocoa powder or powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooled coffee and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese and softened butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. To assemble, place a ladyfinger in a small cup or ramekin. Top with a dollop of the mascarpone mixture, then repeat the layers one more time ending with a ladyfinger on top.
5. Dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar (if desired).
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required. Assembly and refrigeration only.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tartlets
These bite-sized tartlets combine the rich flavors of caramelized onions and creamy goat cheese, perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark golden brown and caramelized.
3. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into small squares, about 3 inches (7.5 cm) per side.
4. Place a spoonful of caramelized onions in the center of each square. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold the pastry squares into triangles or shapes of your choice, pressing edges to seal. Brush with olive oil.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta
Mini Quiches with Spinach and Feta: A delicious and elegant breakfast or brunch option that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 mini puff pastry cups
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry cups according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, whisk together milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
4. Add chopped spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl. Mix well.
5. Place a spoonful of the spinach-feta mixture into each puff pastry cup.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Place the mini quiches on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Raspberry Clafoutis
This sweet and tangy dessert is a perfect way to showcase fresh raspberries. The clafoutis, a classic French recipe, is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add the milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Pot Pie in Ramekins
Miniaturize the comfort of traditional chicken pot pie with these individual servings, perfect for a cozy dinner or party appetizer. This recipe yields 6-8 ramekins, each packed with flavorful chicken, vegetables, and flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 ramekins
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through. Add mixed vegetables and cook until thawed.
3. Whisk together flour, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares large enough to cover each ramekin.
5. Spoon the filling into the ramekins, topping with a square of pie crust. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Bread Puddings with Whiskey Sauce
Warm up with these Mini Bread Puddings served with a rich Whiskey Sauce! Perfect as a dessert or snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Whiskey Sauce (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or a regular muffin tin if you don’t have a mini one.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, heavy cream, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add bread cubes and toss until they’re evenly coated with the wet ingredients.
4. Divide mixture among muffin cups. Sprinkle tops with salt.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
Whiskey Sauce:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons whiskey (such as Jameson or your favorite)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1. In a small saucepan, combine cream, whiskey, and sugar.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat until slightly thickened.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes for bread puddings, 5-7 minutes for Whiskey Sauce.
Summary
Ramekin recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party or a cozy night in. This article shares 18 delicious ramekin recipes that are sure to impress. From classic crème brûlée and individual chocolate lava cakes to savory dishes like garlic herb bread pudding and spinach and cheese soufflé, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find sweet treats like mini cheesecakes with berry compote and vanilla bean panna cotta. With these ramekin recipes, you can create a variety of meals that are both easy to make and visually appealing.
