Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée is a classic dessert, loved by all ages, that evokes pleasant memories and moments of culinary indulgence. This simple yet delicious recipe shows us how a dessert can be both sophisticated and accessible. Its sweet aroma, velvety texture, and the contrast between the smooth cream and the crispy caramel layer on top make it truly special. Let's see together how we can prepare this delicious crème brûlée.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 10

Ingredients:
- 12 large eggs
- 1.5 liters of milk
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 6 tablespoons of sugar for caramelizing

Brief history:
Crème brûlée has its origins in ancient culinary traditions, being a dessert prepared in various forms in many cultures. Over time, this recipe has evolved, becoming a symbol of refinement and pleasure in gastronomy. It is a dessert that brings together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparing the caramel:
1. Caramelizing the sugar: In a small saucepan, add the 6 tablespoons of sugar and place it over medium heat. Gently stir with a wooden spatula until the sugar begins to melt. Be careful not to let it burn, as the caramel can become bitter. Once the sugar has completely melted and has reached a golden color, remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Lining the pan: Pour the caramel into the pan where you will bake the crème brûlée, tilting it so that the caramel evenly coats the bottom and sides of the pan. Let the caramel cool and harden.

Preparing the cream:
1. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, crack the 12 eggs and lightly beat them with a whisk or mixer. Add the 12 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the mixture is homogeneous.
2. Adding the liquid ingredients: Gradually incorporate the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Also add the flour, mixing well until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.
3. Pouring the mixture: Carefully pour the cream mixture into the pan lined with caramel.

Baking:
1. Preparing the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (or 160 degrees for fan-assisted).
2. Baking in a water bath: Place the pan with the crème brûlée in a deep baking tray. Fill the tray with hot water up to halfway up the pan. This technique helps cook the cream evenly and prevents burning. Bake for about 45 minutes or until the cream is firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the middle.
3. Cooling: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Serving:
Crème brûlée can be served plain, but you can enhance it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a few berries for a contrast of flavors. You can also add some toasted nuts for an extra texture.

Useful tips:
- Quality of ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality eggs and whole milk to achieve a richer and tastier cream.
- Vanilla sugar: If you don't have vanilla sugar, you can use vanilla extract, but add it in small amounts as it is more concentrated.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or almond extract for a unique taste.
- Storage: Crème brûlée keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for preparing in advance.

Frequently asked questions:
- What can I do if the cream doesn’t set well? Perhaps you didn’t leave it in the oven long enough or the oven temperature wasn’t adequate. Make sure to use a thermometer to check the oven temperature.
- Can I use lactose-free milk? Yes, you can use lactose-free milk, and the cream will have a similar taste.
- How do I know when the cream is ready? You can check by lightly touching the surface; if it feels firm but soft in the middle, it’s ready.

Beverage pairings:
To complement this delicious crème brûlée, you can try a sweet wine or a vanilla liqueur. Additionally, a warm herbal tea or a flavored coffee can enhance the experience.

Crème brûlée is more than just a simple dessert; it is a way to bring joy and warmth to every meal. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will bring smiles and applause from your loved ones. Enjoy!