Unfortunately I don't think this cake can be made without a culinary torch. I tried to do it with a lighter but it just wasn't strong enough. This is the torch that I have, it's affordable and easy to use but it doesn't include the butane. This torch also also has good reviews and it comes with the butane but it is a little pricier. You can still make the cake without the caramelized sugar and it would be a "vanilla custard cake".