Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée - a classic and refined dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to the delicious world of desserts! Today, I invite you to prepare a wonderful crème brûlée, a dessert that has delighted generations. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for any occasion, from festive meals to a cozy family evening.

A brief history
Crème brûlée has deep roots in culinary history, being appreciated by cultures around the world. Its variations vary, but the essence remains the same: a creamy combination of eggs and milk, sweetened with caramelized sugar. It is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something spectacular.

Necessary ingredients
To achieve a dream dessert, you will need the following ingredients:

- 16 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 8 eggs (preferably fresh and from free-range hens)
- 1.5 liters of milk (whole milk will provide a creamier texture)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or you can use vanilla extract for a more intense flavor)
- 1 vial of rum essence (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of flavor)

Step by step - Your guide to a perfect result

1. Preparing the caramelized sugar
In a 3-liter pot, place the 16 tablespoons of sugar. Use low heat and gently stir the sugar with a wooden spatula to help it melt evenly. Be careful, as caramelized sugar can become very hot. When the sugar turns a golden-yellow color, carefully swirl the pot to coat the sides with caramel. Once evenly distributed, let it cool completely.

2. Preparing the mixture
In a separate pot, heat the milk, then set it aside to cool until it is warm. In a large bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Add the rum essence and gently mix.

3. Combine the ingredients
When the milk has cooled, gradually add it to the egg yolk mixture, continuously stirring to avoid curdling the eggs. In another bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks, then carefully fold them into the milk and egg mixture using a spatula to retain the air in the egg whites.

4. Baking
Pour the resulting mixture into the pot with caramelized sugar. Place the pot in a larger baking dish, filling the dish with warm water halfway up the pot (the bain-marie method) to ensure even baking. Place it in a preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for about 60 minutes.

5. Cooling and serving
After the baking time is finished, remove the pot from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This cooling time will allow the flavors to intensify.

Serving suggestions
Once the crème brûlée is well chilled, you can cut it into portions and serve it plain or with a garnish of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries. You can also add a chocolate sauce or a dollop of cream for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips
- If you use eggs from a local farm, you will notice a significant difference in taste and color.
- Ensure that the sugar is completely melted and caramelized evenly to avoid a bitter taste.
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can experiment with flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg in the milk mixture.

Frequently asked questions
- *Why do I need to use a bain-marie?*
This helps maintain a constant temperature and avoid rapid curdling of the eggs, resulting in a smooth texture.
- *Can crème brûlée be frozen?*
It is not recommended, as the texture will change. It is best enjoyed fresh.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of crème brûlée contains approximately 250 calories, being a good source of protein and calcium due to the eggs and milk. Consuming this dessert in moderation will indulge you without significantly affecting your diet.

Possible variations
- You can replace the rum essence with orange or almond essence to create interesting variations.
- Try adding a layer of caramelized fruits on top for a pleasant contrast of textures.
- Also, for a more intense flavor, add a few drops of coffee to the milk mixture.

In conclusion, crème brûlée is a classic dessert that is easy to prepare and can bring a touch of elegance to any meal. It is a recipe that combines tradition with the pleasure of taste, perfect for being enjoyed with loved ones. So, put on your apron and let your imagination soar!