Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée is a classic dessert, cherished by generations for its velvety texture and intense sweetness. This delicacy evokes memories of family meals, moments of indulgence, and culinary traditions passed down with love. Preparing this cream is not just an art, but also a form of expressing love and passion for cooking.

Total preparation time: 50-55 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Before we get started, let’s discuss the essential ingredients for achieving the perfect crème brûlée.

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 ml milk (preferably whole, for a richer texture)
- 4 fresh eggs (ideally from local farms)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch (for a creamier consistency)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar for caramelizing
- Optional flavors: vanilla essence or lemon zest (for a more pleasant aroma)

Helpful tips about ingredients:

1. Milk: Choose whole milk for a richer cream. If you want to reduce calories, you can opt for semi-skimmed milk, but the texture will be slightly different.
2. Eggs: Use fresh eggs, as they influence both the taste and texture of the cream. Organic eggs are an excellent choice.
3. Sugar: Brown sugar adds a note of natural caramel, while white sugar is more common. You can experiment with different types of sugar to find the perfect taste for you.

Preparing the crème brûlée:

1. Caramelizing the sugar: In a one-liter saucepan, add the 3 tablespoons of sugar for caramelizing. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly. Watch the color; the sugar should turn golden, but do not let it burn. Once the sugar has melted and has a beautiful color, remove the saucepan from the heat.
2. Coating the saucepan: Using a quick motion, swirl the saucepan to evenly coat the walls with the caramelized sugar. Let it cool for a few minutes.
3. Preparing the mixture: In a mixing bowl, add the milk, eggs, the 4 tablespoons of sugar, cornstarch, and the chosen flavor (vanilla or lemon). Mix well until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy.
4. Pouring the mixture: Carefully pour the egg and milk mixture into the saucepan coated with caramelized sugar.
5. Preparing for the oven: Take a larger saucepan and fill it halfway with water, then place the saucepan with the crème brûlée in the center. This process is called a "water bath" and helps to bake the cream evenly, preventing cracking.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 160°C and place the saucepan inside. Let it bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cream slightly pulls away from the edges of the saucepan.
7. Cooling and serving: Once the cream is ready, let it cool completely before inverting it onto a serving plate. You can decorate with a little caramel or slices of fresh fruit for an added flavor and color.

Nutritional benefits of crème brûlée:

This recipe is rich in protein due to the eggs, and the milk provides essential calcium for bone health. However, it is important to consume in moderation, considering it is also a dessert high in sugars.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use plant-based milk? Absolutely! Almond or coconut milk can be an excellent alternative, but the texture and taste will be different.
- How can I avoid cracking the cream? Make sure to respect the baking time and oven temperature. The water bath greatly helps maintain a fine texture.
- Can I add chocolate? Yes! You can add a few cubes of dark chocolate to the milk and egg mixture for a decadent version.

Possible variations:

- Coffee crème brûlée: Add 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee to the mixture for an intense flavor.
- Fruit crème brûlée: You can add fruit puree or pieces of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or peaches, for a fresh note.

Serving suggestion:

For a complete culinary experience, serve the crème brûlée alongside a fragrant coffee or herbal tea. A slice of crunchy cookies or a chocolate dessert can perfectly complement this sweet indulgence.

In conclusion, crème brûlée is more than just a simple dessert; it is a reminder of the times spent with loved ones, a tradition that continues to delight our senses. With every spoonful, you will enjoy a moment of nostalgia and pleasure. Don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family, as cooking is about connection and joy!