A soft, sweet vanilla soufflé is light, airy, and gently sweet—more like a warm cloud than a cake. It’s elegant but surprisingly simple when broken down. Here’s a classic vanilla dessert soufflé that rises beautifully and stays tender inside.
🍮 Soft & Sweet Vanilla Soufflé
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for coating ramekins)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Ramekins
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter the inside of 4 ramekins (brush upward).
- Sprinkle sugar inside to coat, tapping out excess.
- Place ramekins on a baking sheet.
2. Make the Base
- Heat milk in a saucepan until warm (not boiling).
- In another saucepan, whisk flour with 2 tablespoons sugar.
- Slowly whisk in warm milk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and smooth.
- Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and egg yolks one at a time.
- Let cool slightly.
3. Whip Egg Whites
- Beat egg whites with salt until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add remaining sugar and beat until glossy stiff peaks.
4. Fold Gently
- Stir 1/3 of egg whites into the vanilla base to loosen it.
- Gently fold in the remaining whites using a spatula.
- Do not overmix—keep it airy.
5. Bake
- Spoon mixture into ramekins, filling just below the rim.
- Run a finger around the inside edge (helps rising).
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until puffed and lightly golden.
6. Serve Immediately
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Serve right away—soufflés gently fall as they cool.
Tips for Success
- Room-temperature eggs whip better.
- Clean, grease-free bowl for egg whites.
- Don’t open the oven while baking.
- Gentle folding = soft texture.
Optional Variations
- Add lemon zest for a fresh flavor
- Serve with vanilla sauce or berries
- Add white chocolate to the base for richness
This vanilla soufflé is soft, warm, and lightly sweet—perfect as a comforting dessert or special treat.
If you want, I can also give you a no-fail beginner version, a chocolate-vanilla swirl soufflé, or a baked custard soufflé that doesn’t fall as much.
