Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée is a classic dessert that has won the hearts of many over the years. This creamy delicacy, topped with a crunchy layer of caramel, brings a touch of nostalgia in every spoonful. Whether served on a special occasion or simply as a treat at the end of the day, crème brûlée is a dish that never goes out of style. Today, I will guide you step by step in creating a perfect recipe, so you can enjoy a quick and simple dessert with a unique flavor.

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

Ingredients needed for crème brûlée:

- 1 liter of milk (preferably whole for a creamy texture)
- 1 1/2 cups of sugar
- 8 large eggs
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon (optional, but recommended for a fragrant taste)
- 1 teaspoon of flour (optional, for a whiter cream)

The history of crème brûlée is fascinating, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. Caramel has been used since ancient times, and the combination of eggs and milk symbolizes comfort and family warmth.

Step 1: Preparing the milk
In a saucepan, add the milk, the 3 packets of vanilla sugar, and the lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. The lemon zest will provide a wonderful aroma, helping to mellow the strong egg flavor. If you prefer a simpler cream, you can omit this ingredient, but I advise against it!

Step 2: Caramelizing the sugar
In a pan or pot, add one cup of sugar and melt it over low heat. It is essential to swirl the pan to coat its edges with caramel, without stirring with a spoon. The caramel should not be left on the heat for too long, as it risks becoming bitter. Once the sugar has completely melted and has taken on a golden color, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool in a cool place so it can harden.

Step 3: Preparing the egg mixture
In a large bowl, beat the 8 eggs together with 1/2 cup of sugar. Mix until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes frothy. Add the teaspoon of flour, mixing well to avoid lumps. The flour is optional, but it can help achieve a finer texture.

Step 4: Assembling the cream
Once the milk has boiled, strain it and let it cool slightly. Then, pour the warm milk over the beaten eggs, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from coagulating. This step is crucial because you want to achieve a smooth and uniform mixture.

Step 5: Baking
Carefully pour the milk and egg mixture into the pan with caramel. Place this pan into a larger one filled with cold water. This is the bain-marie method, which helps cook the cream evenly. Put the pan in the preheated oven at 160°C and let it bake for 40-50 minutes. Check occasionally if the water in the outer pan is boiling, adding cold water if necessary.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
After the cream has baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving. It is essential to follow this step to allow the flavors to develop and the texture to stabilize. Place the crème brûlée on a platter, pouring the caramel sauce from the pan on top. You can add a few mint leaves for a touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions:
Crème brûlée pairs wonderfully with a flavored coffee or a fragrant tea. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a bit of cinnamon or a splash of almond essence to the egg mixture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use skim milk?
Of course, but the cream will be less creamy. For optimal results, use whole milk.

2. What can I do if the cream hasn't set?
Check the oven temperature. Sometimes, a temperature that is too high can lead to uneven cooking. Also, make sure you adhered to the baking time.

3. How can I vary the recipe?
You can try adding different flavors such as orange essence or even melted chocolate to the egg mixture.

Nutritional benefits:
This delicacy is rich in protein due to the eggs and contains calcium from the milk, making it a good source of nutrients. However, given its high sugar content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

I invite you to try this classic crème brûlée recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. It is a recipe that will bring smiles and applause from your loved ones, turning every meal into a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!