google
ref
1960s: shortening of crème brûlée.
etymonline
ref
brulee (adj.)
from French brûlée "burned," fem. past participle of brûler "to burn," from Old French brusler (11c.); see broil (v.1). Crème brûlée was known in English by various names from early 18c., including a translated burnt cream.
