Burnt sugar cream

Crème caramel - a classic, comforting dessert that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. This simple yet refined recipe is perfect for impressing guests or pampering family. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply as a weekend treat, crème caramel will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients needed:
- 10 fresh eggs
- 1 liter of milk (preferably whole for a richer cream)
- 200 g granulated sugar (for the mixture)
- 250 g sugar (for caramel)
- Vanilla essence (to taste, but recommended 1-2 teaspoons)

Step 1: Preparing the caramel
Start by making the caramel. In a heavy-bottomed pan, add the 250 g of sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and let the sugar melt, stirring gently if needed. Be careful not to burn it, as caramel becomes bitter if cooked too long. Once the sugar has melted and has taken on a beautiful golden color, carefully pour it into the dish where you will bake the cream. Tilt the dish to evenly coat the bottom and sides with caramel. Let it cool and harden.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the 10 eggs with a whisk or mixer. Gradually add 200 g of granulated sugar and vanilla essence, continuing to mix. Then, slowly incorporate the milk, stirring continuously to avoid forming air bubbles. Once you have a smooth mixture, it's time to strain it! Use a fine sieve to eliminate any lumps and achieve a silky cream.

Step 3: Baking
Preheat the oven to 160°C. Carefully pour the strained mixture into the dish lined with caramel. If you want to make individual servings, you can use ramekins, which will give a special shape to your dessert. Place the ramekins in a larger tray and fill the tray with hot water to create a water bath. This will help the cream bake evenly and stay moist. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cream is firm at the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 4: Cooling and serving
Once the cream is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to develop and make the dessert even more delicious. When you are ready to serve the crème caramel, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The caramel will melt again, creating a delicious sauce.

Expert tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a few crushed cardamom pods to the mixture. These spices will provide a subtle yet distinctive taste.

Nutritional benefits: Crème caramel is a good source of protein due to the eggs and contains calcium from the milk. It is a calorie-rich dessert, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, but it also offers a remarkable culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use skim milk instead of whole milk?
Using whole milk gives a richer, creamier texture, but you can use skim milk if you prefer a lighter dessert.

2. How can I tell when the cream is ready?
You can check by gently touching it; the cream should be firm at the edges and slightly jiggly in the center. If it is too soft in the middle, bake it for a few more minutes.

3. Can I add other flavors?
Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors like orange or lemon for a fresh note.

Pair this crème caramel with a sweet wine or a strong espresso for a perfect meal finale. Additionally, serving it alongside fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries will add a touch of freshness.

Each spoonful of crème caramel will transport you back in time, evoking childhood memories and moments of indulgence. This classic dessert is more than just a recipe; it is an experience you can share with loved ones, creating unforgettable memories around the table. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its unique flavor!