If you’re searching for an elegant dessert that feels like a cloud on a spoon, this classic Vanilla Soufflé is the one. Soft, airy, and infused with warm vanilla, each bite practically melts in your mouth. Despite its impressive restaurant-style presentation, it’s much easier to make at home than most people think.
This recipe creates a beautifully risen soufflé with a creamy, mousse-like center and a lightly caramelized top — the perfect way to end any meal.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Vanilla Soufflé
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Light, fluffy, and delicately sweet
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Rich vanilla flavor throughout
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Surprisingly simple ingredients
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Elegant dessert for dinner parties or holidays
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Ready in under 1 hour
👩🍳 Servings & Time
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
🥣 Ingredients
(Measurements are for 4 servings)
Base:
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4 large eggs, separated
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1 ¼ cups (300 ml) milk
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5 tbsp (50 g) flour
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3 tbsp (45 g) sugar (for egg yolks)
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2 tsp (10 g) vanilla extract
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¼ tsp (1 g) salt
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3 tbsp (45 g) sugar (for egg whites)
For Coating the Ramekins:
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Softened butter
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Granulated sugar
Optional Topping:
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Powdered sugar
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Fresh berries
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Whipped cream
🍮 Instructions
1. Prepare the Ramekins
Brush each ramekin generously with softened butter.
Coat the inside with sugar by rotating the dish so the sugar sticks to all sides.
This helps the soufflé rise evenly.
2. Make the Base
Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm (don’t boil).
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking constantly.
Transfer the mixture back to the saucepan and cook over medium heat.
Whisk until thickened, like a smooth custard.
Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Beat the Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy.
Gradually add the 3 tablespoons sugar.
Continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the Mixtures Together
Add ⅓ of the whipped egg whites into the warm custard mixture to lighten it.
Gently fold in the remaining whites, being careful not to deflate the air.
5. Fill the Ramekins
Spoon the soufflé mixture into each ramekin, filling to the top.
Run your thumb around the inner rim to help the soufflés rise straight.
6. Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until tall, golden, and puffed.
Do NOT open the oven door while baking — this may cause them to collapse.
7. Serve Immediately
Soufflés begin to deflate after a few minutes, so serve right away.
Dust with powdered sugar or top with berries if desired.
💡 Tips for Perfect Soufflés
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Eggs whip better at room temperature.
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Make sure bowls are grease-free before whipping egg whites.
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Be gentle when folding — air is your friend!
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Serve immediately for the most impressive presentation.
✨ Variations
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Chocolate Soufflé: Add melted chocolate to the base.
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Lemon Soufflé: Add lemon zest + 1 tbsp lemon juice.
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Coffee Soufflé: Mix 1 tsp instant espresso into the warm milk.