Caramel cream

Creme caramel – a refined and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Creme caramel is a classic French dessert, characterized by a smooth texture and a rich flavor of vanilla and caramel. This recipe, inspired by Laura Calder, will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or as a sweet treat after dinner, this quick dessert will surely impress.

Ingredients:

- 600 ml whole milk
- 6 eggs
- 1 vanilla bean
- 100 g sugar (for the cream)
- 200 g sugar (for the caramel sauce)
- 2-3 tablespoons water

Step 1: Infusing the milk

Start by preparing the milk. Pour the 600 ml of whole milk into a saucepan and add the vanilla bean, split lengthwise, along with the seeds extracted from it. This step is essential for achieving a deep vanilla flavor. Place the saucepan over medium heat and let it come close to a boil. When it starts to steam, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly, removing the vanilla bean.

Step 2: Preparing the egg mixture

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with 100 g of sugar, using a whisk or spatula. There is no need to use an electric mixer, as you want to keep the mixture airy. When the milk has cooled, gradually pour it over the egg mixture, stirring continuously. Be careful that the milk is not hot, otherwise you risk turning the eggs into an omelet!

Step 3: Preparing the caramel sauce

For the caramel sauce, in a small saucepan, add 200 g of sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of water. Place the mixture over medium heat and let it boil, without stirring, until the sugar caramelizes and turns amber. This step requires a little patience, but the result will be a delicious caramel sauce. Once it reaches a golden color, immediately pour it into a round mold, spreading it evenly over the bottom and sides.

Step 4: Baking the cream

Pour the milk and egg mixture over the caramel in the mold. Place the mold in a larger baking dish and add hot water to the dish, halfway up the cream mold. This water bath baking method will ensure even baking and a smooth texture. Place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 45 minutes, or until the cream is firm but slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

After the baking time has passed, remove the mold from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours before inverting it onto a serving platter. To do this, briefly dip the bottom of the mold in warm water to loosen the caramel. Carefully invert the cream onto a platter and let the caramel sauce flow over it.

Serving suggestion: You can add a few slices of fresh fruit, such as peaches or strawberries, for a pleasant contrast of flavors and a vibrant presentation.

Possible variations: Instead of vanilla, you can experiment with a few drops of orange or almond extract for a unique twist. Also, for a more decadent version, you can add a bit of melted chocolate to the milk and egg mixture.

This simple creme caramel recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, offering an elegant dessert with an unmistakable taste. Enjoy it with loved ones and savor every spoonful!