Burnt sugar cream

Burnt sugar cream – a classic dessert with a velvety texture and a bittersweet taste that reminds us of family moments around the table. This simple yet refined recipe combines tradition with a modern twist, and each spoonful takes us back in time to grandparents who spoiled us with delicious sweets. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect burnt sugar cream that will surely impress both family and guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients
- 500 ml milk
- 180 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 100 g sugar for caramelizing

Necessary utensils
- Aluminum molds or ramekins
- Baking tray for bain-marie
- A wooden spoon
- A whisk or mixer
- A preheated oven

Brief history
Burnt sugar cream, also known as "crème caramel" in many cultures, has become popular among dessert lovers due to its simplicity and versatility of ingredients. This recipe allows for a wide range of variations, from adding flavors like orange or almond to serving with fruit sauces or ice cream. It is a dessert that transcends generations, being enjoyed over the years.

Step by step for a perfect dessert

1. Preparing the molds: Start by preparing the aluminum molds or ramekins. Make sure they are clean and dry, ready to be filled with the delicious mixture.

2. Caramelizing the sugar: In a small pan, add the 100 g of sugar and place over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar melts and turns golden-brown. Be careful, as the sugar can burn quickly. Once it reaches the desired color, remove the pan from the heat and carefully pour the caramel into each mold, evenly covering the bottom. Let it cool slightly and harden.

3. Preparing the milk and egg mixture: In a large bowl, beat the 4 eggs with the remaining 80 g of sugar and the 2 packets of vanilla sugar using a whisk or mixer. Continue mixing until you achieve a fine foam. Then, gradually add the warm milk, stirring constantly to homogenize the mixture. It is important that the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid cooking the eggs.

4. Filling the molds: Carefully pour the milk and egg mixture into each mold over the hardened caramel. Fill them almost to the edge, leaving a little space for expansion.

5. Bain-marie: Place the molds in the baking tray and add warm water to the tray until it reaches almost halfway up the height of the molds. This process will help to bake the cream evenly.

6. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the cream becomes slightly golden on the surface and sets, having a slightly wobbly texture, similar to a jelly.

7. Cooling: Once baked, remove the molds from the oven and let them cool at room temperature. Then, transfer them to the refrigerator for a few hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and achieve a perfect texture.

8. Serving: Before serving, use a knife to cut around the edges of the cream in the mold. Then, carefully invert the cream onto a plate. This will allow the caramel to flow beautifully over the top. You can garnish the dessert with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips
- Quality of ingredients: Use whole milk for a richer cream. Also, vanilla sugar can be replaced with real vanilla extract for a more intense flavor.
- Chocolate variant: Add 50 g of melted dark chocolate to the milk and egg mixture for a delicious chocolate cream.
- Flavoring: Experiment with additional flavors, such as lemon or orange zest, to add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits
This burnt sugar cream contains proteins from eggs and calcium from milk, providing a good source of nutrients. However, it is worth noting that it is a dessert rich in sugar, so it is recommended to be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use plant-based milk?: Yes, you can experiment with almond or soy milk, but the texture and taste may vary.
- How can I tell if it’s done?: The cream should be firm but with a slightly wobbly texture. If it’s too soft, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.
- Can it be frozen?: It is not recommended to freeze burnt sugar cream, as the texture may deteriorate. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Serving recommendations
Serve burnt sugar cream alongside a fragrant coffee or herbal tea to balance the sweetness of the dessert. Additionally, a fresh fruit salad can add a refreshing contrast to this delicacy.

Enjoy and happy cooking! This burnt sugar cream recipe will not only fill the tables with sweetness but also bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Savor every moment of preparation and tasting!