How do you make cheese even better? Set it on fire. Okay, not really, but with a generous dusting of sugar and some well-placed torching (safety first!), brûléed cheese becomes something magical. Take your next celebration over the top in the best possible way with these pro tips for brûléed cheese.

Get the Goods: In terms, of cheese, choose ones that are soft, creamy and gooey. Creamy, soft-ripened brie or funky washed-rind cheeses that are soft in the center are ideal. In terms of fire, add a kitchen torch like RSVP International Culinary Torch to your shopping list so you can start your fiery fromage adventure as soon as you get home.

Ignite: 

1. While cheese is cold, use a sharp knife to carefully trim off the top rind. Let cheese rest until it reaches room temperature (30–45 minutes).
2. Add any herbs or zest to the top, exposed portion of the cheese. Then coat with superfine sugar, covering the entire top and any herbs or zest to about the thickness of a nickel.
3. Using a back-and-forth motion, carefully hold a lit torch about 5–6 inches away from the sugar, gradually moving closer until the sugar begins to bubble and caramelize. Take care not to burn the sugar—you’re looking for an evenly browned surface that cracks when cooled. NOTE: Please use caution when brûléeing!
4. Allow to cool for 1–2 minutes. You will know you've mastered the brûlée when a tap with a spoon is met by a firm, glass-like glaze.
5. Break through the caramelized top with a spoon, dig into the cheese and enjoy, rind and all!

Pairings Optional: While brûléed cheese is good enough to eat with just a spoon (no bread or crackers needed), it's nice to clear the palate with fresh berries, apples, grapes and pears. To make things even more decadent, try using milk chocolate and candied nuts as a side, and wash it all down with a cognac or vanilla or caramel-forward bourbon.  

If you want to try your hand at brûléeing cheese but still need a little inspiration on where to begin, we’ve got the recipes for you.