Burnt sugar cream

Burnt sugar cream: A delicacy from the heart of childhood

Welcome to my kitchen, where today I will share with you a recipe that is very dear to me and evokes precious memories from my childhood. Burnt sugar cream is a classic dessert, simple yet extremely delicious, perfect for moments when you need a quick and comforting sweet treat. This recipe has been passed down from someone special in my life, and today I want to share it with you to bring a touch of nostalgia and joy to your tables.

Total preparation time: 2 hours (including cooling)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients

- 1 L sweet milk
- 8 eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 1 vanilla bean or 2 sachets of Bourbon vanilla sugar (I strongly recommend this type of vanilla sugar as it contains vanilla pieces that enhance the flavor)
- Rum essence (to taste)

Preparing the burnt sugar cream

Step 1: Caramelizing the sugar

The first step is to caramelize the sugar. In a fireproof dish, add 100 g of sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spatula to prevent burning. When the sugar starts to melt and turns golden, quickly pour it onto the walls of the dish, ensuring it coats evenly. Let it cool completely to form a crunchy layer of caramel.

Step 2: Preparing the milk

In a pot, bring the milk to a boil over medium heat. When the milk starts to boil, add the vanilla bean cut lengthwise or the 2 sachets of Bourbon vanilla sugar. Let it boil for a few minutes, then set it aside to cool slightly. This step is essential as the vanilla flavor will enrich the cream.

Step 3: Mixing the eggs

In a large bowl, beat the 8 eggs with 150 g of sugar until the mixture becomes frothy and a deep yellow. This step is important to achieve an airy texture for the cream. Slowly add the warm milk, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling. If desired, add the rum essence now for an extra flavor boost.

Step 4: Baking

Carefully pour the mixture into the caramelized dish. Place the dish in a larger tray and fill the tray with warm water, halfway up the cream dish. This is the bain-marie baking method, which will ensure even baking and a silky texture. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 40-45 minutes. The cream is ready when it has set and is lightly browned on top.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

Once the cream is baked, let it cool in the dish in which it was prepared. Then, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-3 hours, or even better, let it sit overnight. Although it is delicious right out of the oven, the flavors intensify after a day.

Serving suggestions

Burnt sugar cream is ideally served cold, with a dollop of whipped cream on top or with some fresh fruit, such as raspberries or orange slices. You can also pair it with a sweet wine or a strong espresso for a perfect contrast.

Useful tips

- Make sure to use a suitable dish for caramelizing, preferably glass or ceramic, that can withstand high temperatures.
- If you do not have Bourbon vanilla sugar, you can use regular vanilla sugar, but the flavor will be less intense.
- Experiment with flavors! You can add a pinch of cinnamon or a few drops of almond essence to customize the cream to your taste.

Nutritional benefits

Burnt sugar cream is a good source of calcium from milk and protein from eggs, but it should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content. An ideal dessert for special occasions, bringing family and friends together.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use almond or soy milk, but the texture and taste will change slightly.

2. How do I know when the cream is ready?
The cream is ready when it is firm to the touch and has a golden color on top. A trick is to insert a knife in the middle; if it comes out clean, the cream is baked.

3. Can I replace the eggs?
There are plant-based alternatives for eggs, but the texture and taste will be different. It is recommended to experiment to find the best option.

In conclusion, burnt sugar cream is not just a delicious dessert but also a way to bring memories and joy into our lives. I invite you to join me in preparing this delicacy and to enjoy every bite! This simple recipe is perfect for any occasion, and with a little love and attention, you will achieve a perfect result. Let us enjoy together the taste of childhood!