Preparing the Custard and vanilla bean: 

Step 1: Use a paring knife to slit the vanilla bean lengthwise. Then, delicately scrape out the flavorful beans using the back of the blade.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla bean paste (or extract), and bourbon (if using/ or another choice of liquor) until well combined.

Step 3: Evenly distribute the custard mixture among the individual Mason jars, ensuring not to fill them to the brim. Leave some space for the mixture to expand as it cooks.

Begin with Sous Vide Cooking:

Step 4: Fill a large pot or Sous Vide container with cool water and submerge each jar carefully, ensuring they are fully immersed. It’s important to use cool water to prevent thermal shock and potential cracking of the jars. Also, remember to tighten the lids only fingertip to avoid excessive pressure that could cause the Mason jars to crack.

Step 5: Once all the jars are placed inside the pot or container, you can turn on the Sous Vide immersion circulator. Set the temperature to 180°F/82°C and allow the machine approximately 10 to 15 minutes to reach the desired temperature.

Step 6: Once the set temperature is reached, allow the custard to cook undisturbed for precisely one hour and fifteen minutes. The beauty of Sous Vide cooking is that you don’t need to monitor it constantly. Feel free to leave the house and attend to your other tasks while the custard cooks to perfection. 

Chilling and setting: 

Step 7: Once cooked, use jar lifter tongs to remove the jars from the water bath carefully. Allow the custard to cool on the kitchen counter until it reaches room temperature. Then, refrigerate the jars for at least 4 to 6 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the custard to set perfectly.

Here comes the fun Brûlée time, caramelizing the sugar:

Step 8: Just before serving, sprinkle a thin, even layer of turbinado sugar on top of each custard.

Step 9: Using a blow torch or kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar by moving the flame in a circular motion until it melts and turns golden brown. Be cautious and ensure even browning.

Serving and Enjoy: 

Step 10: Let the custards sit for a few minutes to allow the caramelized sugar to harden. Garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.  You can immediately savor this indulgent dessert.