Caramel

Delicious Caramel Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Caramel is a dessert that perfectly blends the flavors of nuts, chocolate, and caramel, creating a memorable culinary experience. This recipe will guide you step by step to create a soft cocoa base, a layer of caramel cream, and a delicious chocolate cream. Whether you want to impress friends or simply treat yourself, this recipe is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 fresh eggs
- 6 tablespoons sugar (preferably white sugar for a milder taste)
- 3 tablespoons oil (sunflower or canola oil)
- 10 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons water
- 100 g walnuts, roasted and crushed (not too finely, to maintain texture)

For the caramel cream:
- 1 packet Dr. Oetker caramel cream (or a similar quality alternative)
- 1 liter of milk (whole milk provides a richer cream)
- 100 g brown sugar (for a deeper flavor and darker hue)

For the chocolate cream:
- 1 block of butter or margarine (about 100 g, at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 100 g sugar (white sugar will melt more easily)
- 1 teaspoon rum essence (for an intense aroma)

For decoration:
- Halved roasted walnuts or hazelnuts, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a rectangular baking pan (approximately 30x20 cm) greased with a little oil or lined with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and doubles in volume. This process will add air to the base, making it lighter.
3. Add the oil and water, mixing gently.
4. Gradually fold in the flour, cocoa powder, and crushed walnuts, using a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface with the spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Preparing the caramel cream

1. In a small saucepan, add 1 liter of milk and bring it to a boil.
2. Once the milk is boiling, add the packet of Dr. Oetker caramel cream and the brown sugar. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the cream thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Preparing the chocolate cream

1. In a bowl, mix the butter (or margarine) with the sugar until creamy.
2. Add cocoa powder and rum essence, continuing to mix until you achieve a smooth cream.

Step 4: Assembling the dessert

1. Once the base has cooled completely, cut it into two equal parts.
2. Place the first half of the base on a serving platter. Pour an even layer of caramel cream on top.
3. Place the second half of the base over the caramel cream and press gently to secure it.
4. Spread the chocolate cream over the top layer of the base, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
5. Decorate with halved roasted walnuts or hazelnuts, sprinkling them on top.

Helpful Tips

- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help achieve a uniform texture.
- You can substitute the walnuts with hazelnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the chocolate cream.
- The dessert can be served with a drizzle of caramel on top or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use white sugar, but brown sugar adds a note of caramelization and a more complex flavor.

2. How can I tell when the base is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center of the base should come out clean. If there is batter on the toothpick, let it bake for a few more minutes.

3. Can I prepare this dessert in advance?
Yes, you can make the base and creams a day ahead. Just make sure to store them in the refrigerator and assemble the dessert before serving.

4. What can this dessert be served with?
Caramel pairs perfectly with a flavorful coffee or a fruit tea. You can also try a sweet wine that complements the rich flavors of the dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

This caramel recipe contains ingredients like nuts, which are rich in protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Additionally, dark chocolate (if used) is a source of flavonoids that may help improve heart health. Of course, moderation is key, considering the sugar and fat content.

Caramel is more than just a dessert; it's a culinary experience that brings friends and family together. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy every step of this delicious journey.