Earl Grey Creme Brulee

In a heavy medium saucepan, heat half-and-half and whipping cream over medium-low heat just until bubbly. Remove from heat. Whisk in loose tea or add tea bags. Cover; let steep for 1 hour. Strain the cream mixture through a fine mesh sieve if using loose tea, pressing out all the liquid; discard loose tea. Or, remove tea bags from cream, pressing out liquid from the bags.

In a large bowl, combine egg yolks and 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar. Beat with a wire whisk or rotary beater just until combined. Slowly whisk the cream mixture into the egg mixture.

Place eight 3/4-cup souffle dishes, 6-ounce custard cups or 4 3/4-ounce ramekins in a large roasting pan*. Divide custard mixture evenly among the dishes. Place roasting pan on oven rack. Pour enough boiling water into the roasting pan to reach halfway up the sides of the souffle dishes, cups, or ramekins.

Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center of each custard comes out clean. Remove dishes from water; cool on a wire rack. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour or for up to 24 hours.

Before serving, sprinkle each with remaining 1/3 cup sugar and caramelize with a culinary blowtorch*. Serve custards immediately. Makes 8 servings.