Café brulot is the grandest ending to a major New Orleans dinner—especially if it’s made and served in the traditional café brulot bowl and cups. The show at the table is spectacular, and the aroma is wonderful. If you make it at home, look for oranges with a thick, flawless skin. (California oranges are best.)

This is a flamed dish. So make sure you have nothing above the burning bowl that could catch fire. Do not use any spirit higher than 80 proof. If you feel ill at ease about f