Burnt Sugar Cream

Crème brûlée – a classic dessert that takes us back to sweet childhood moments. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia into your kitchen. I invite you to discover the steps to prepare a crème brûlée that will impress both family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 8 fresh eggs
- 250 g sugar (for caramel)
- 150 g sugar (for the egg mixture)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a vanilla pod
- 1 liter whole milk

Brief history
Crème brûlée is a dessert that has gained popularity over time, enjoyed in many cultures in various forms. Its creamy texture and the sweet taste of caramel make this dessert a perfect choice for any occasion. It is a symbol of goodness and comfort, often associated with pleasant family memories.

Step by step for a perfect crème brûlée

Step 1: Preparing the egg mixture
Start by beating the eggs. You can use a whisk for better control, but for a quicker and smoother result, an electric mixer is ideal. Beat the eggs until frothy, then add the 150 g of sugar. Continue mixing for another 1-2 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes fluffy.

Step 2: Adding the milk
Heat the milk in a saucepan, but do not bring it to a boil. Gradually add it to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from coagulating. If using a vanilla pod, split it lengthwise and add the seeds to the milk, giving the dish a subtle and aromatic flavor.

Step 3: Caramelizing the sugar
In a frying pan or heat-resistant dish, add the 250 g of sugar for caramel. You can choose to caramelize the sugar on the stove or in the oven. If you choose the stove, use low heat to avoid burning the sugar. Stir constantly, and when it melts and turns a brown color, remove it immediately from the heat. Caution! The caramel is very hot and can cause serious burns, so use gloves if necessary.

Once the sugar has caramelized, quickly pour it into the dish where you will bake the crème. Tilt the dish to coat the sides with the melted caramel, being careful not to burn yourself.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
After preparing the caramel, carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the caramel in the dish. This mixture will create delicious layers as it bakes.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 160°C (325°F). Place the dish with the crème brûlée in a larger tray filled with warm water (water bath). Bake the dessert for 50-60 minutes or until the crème turns golden and thickens, and the top is firm to the touch. Check if it’s done by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Once baked, let the crème cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. When ready to serve, invert the crème onto a platter or plate and let the caramel flow over the entire surface. You can slice it into pieces or cubes, depending on your preference.

Practical tips
- Make sure the eggs and milk are at room temperature for better homogenization.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract to the egg mixture.
- For a more intense vanilla flavor, use a vanilla pod instead of extract.
- If you want a lighter version, you can replace whole milk with skim milk or alternative milk, but the texture will be less creamy.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use farm eggs?
Yes, farm eggs can add a richer flavor to the dish. Make sure they are fresh.

2. How do I know if the crème is done?
A good way to check is the knife test. If it comes out clean, the crème is ready.

3. Can the crème brûlée be stored?
Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent odor absorption.

Delicious combinations
Crème brûlée is delicious served plain, but can be accompanied by a berry sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of coffee or fragrant tea pairs perfectly with the dessert, adding a touch of elegance and comfort.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs and milk content, providing a good source of calcium. Although it is a sweet dessert, you can control the amount of sugar to make a healthier version.

Crème brûlée is not just a dessert, but a vivid memory of childhood and moments spent with family. So embrace this recipe, enjoy each step, and savor the result! Enjoy your meal!