Burnt sugar cream

The dessert I want to share with you is one of those dishes that brings smiles to the faces of loved ones. It is a recipe for crème caramel, a simple yet elegant dessert that combines refined flavors and delicate textures. This recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, being cherished by generations. Let's embark together on the magic of cooking!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 10 eggs
- 1 liter of milk
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (for the mixture)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (for the glaze)
- 2 tablespoons of raisins (soaked in rum)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of almond extract
- 2 tablespoons of rum (for the raisins)
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients on a work surface. It is important to have everything at hand to make the cooking process more efficient. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for easier incorporation into the mixture. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) to be ready when the mixture is done.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, whisk the 10 eggs well with a whisk or mixer. Then, add 1 liter of milk and 5 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to mix until the sugar is completely dissolved. Here you can see how the eggs and milk turn into a creamy and homogeneous mixture.

Step 3: Adding flavors
Now it's time to add the flavors that will transform your dessert into a true delicacy. Add the 2 tablespoons of rum-soaked raisins, the vanilla and almond extracts, as well as the lemon and orange zest to the mixture. These ingredients will bring a subtle fragrance and intense flavor to your dessert. Mix everything with a spatula to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Preparing the sugar glaze
In a pot, add the 4 tablespoons of sugar for the glaze. Place it over medium heat and wait for it to melt. Be careful at this step, as the sugar can burn quickly. When the sugar turns golden and liquid, remove the pot from the heat and carefully glaze the bottom and sides of the pot in which the cream will bake. This will form a delicious caramelized crust.

Step 5: Assembling and baking
After glazing the pot, pour the egg and milk mixture inside. Make sure to evenly cover the entire surface, then place the pot in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cream; if it comes out clean, your dessert is perfect.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Once the baking time has passed, remove the pot from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Then, place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This dessert is best served cold, and the flavors will intensify as it cools.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the crème caramel in individual portions, decorated with a few raisins and a splash of rum on top. You can also add a slice of orange or lemon for a touch of freshness. If you want to bring a touch of innovation, you can replace the raisins with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, to add a note of diversity.

Tips and useful advice:
- You can reduce the sugar in the mixture if you prefer a less sweet dessert. The caramel flavor will add enough sweetness.
- If you want a fluffier texture, you can beat the eggs separately from the milk and then gently combine them.
- For a chocolate version, you can add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the mixture, thus obtaining a chocolate crème caramel.

Nutritional benefits:
This crème caramel is a good source of protein due to the eggs and calcium from the milk. Additionally, the raisins add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. However, it is important to consume this dessert in moderation, considering its sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk, but make sure to choose an unsweetened and unflavored variant.
2. How can I avoid air bubbles forming?
Mix the ingredients carefully and do not beat them too much to avoid incorporating air.
3. Can I make the dessert a day in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert is even better the next day, once the flavors have had time to develop.

I hope you enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe! It is a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!