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Fluffy Vanilla Soufflé Recipe

4.8 from 135 reviews

This Fluffy Vanilla Soufflé is a classic French dessert featuring airy, golden soufflés infused with pure vanilla essence. Lightly sweetened and perfectly puffed, these individual soufflés are an impressive yet simple treat, baked to perfection and dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Soufflé Base

  • 4 large eggs, separated
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Finishing

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ramekins: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease four 6-ounce ramekins and evenly dust them with granulated sugar to prevent sticking and add a slight caramelized crust.
  2. Heat Milk: In a medium saucepan, warm the whole milk over medium heat until it is steaming but not boiling. This step prepares the milk for tempering the egg yolks.
  3. Mix Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the egg yolks with granulated sugar and pure vanilla extract until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, whisking until smooth to avoid lumps.
  4. Temper Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the heated milk into the egg yolk mixture while continuously whisking to gently raise the temperature of the eggs. Return this combined mixture back to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens into a custard-like consistency, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  5. Whip Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, creating a stable meringue that will give the soufflé its characteristic fluffiness.
  6. Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the slightly cooled custard mixture, taking care to preserve the volume by folding softly to maintain the airy texture.
  7. Fill and Bake: Spoon the lightened mixture into the prepared ramekins, smoothing the tops evenly. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the soufflés rise beautifully and develop a golden-brown top.
  8. Serve: Immediately dust the soufflés with powdered sugar and serve at once to enjoy their full puff and delicate texture.

Notes

  • Do not open the oven door during baking, as this may cause the soufflés to collapse.
  • Serve immediately once out of the oven to enjoy the soufflés at their fluffiest.
  • If desired, vanilla bean pods can be used instead of extract for a more intense flavor.
  • Ensure egg whites are beaten to stiff peaks for maximum volume and rise.

Keywords: vanilla soufflé, fluffy dessert, classic French dessert, vanilla custard souffle, baked soufflé recipe