Creams a la Alina

Cremes a la Alina – A Frothy Delight for Indulgent Moments

Who doesn't love a refined dessert that delights the taste buds and brings a smile to your face? Today, I present to you a delicious recipe for Cremes a la Alina, a simplified yet equally tasty version that doesn't require advanced cooking skills. Using store-bought puff pastry, this recipe quickly becomes a perfect choice for any occasion. Plus, you'll bring a touch of nostalgia to every serving, reminding you of the desserts lovingly prepared by grandparents or the moments spent at festive tables.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients

For the cream:
- 1 liter of milk
- 6 eggs (separate the whites from the yolks)
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 200 grams of white flour
- 1 packet of gelatin sheets (about 15 grams)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

For the puff pastry:
- 2 boxes of puff pastry (each containing 10 squares)

For decoration:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Necessary Utensils
- A baking tray
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer or a whisk
- A spatula
- A saucepan
- A platter or tray for assembly

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Puff Pastry

Start by thawing the puff pastry according to the instructions on the package. I recommend leaving it at room temperature to soften slightly, making it easier to roll out. Once thawed, roll out each piece of pastry on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not overlap.

Step 2: Baking the Puff Pastry Sheets

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Bake the pastry sheets for about 15-20 minutes, until they turn golden and crispy. Then, let them cool completely. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture for the cream.

Step 3: Preparing the Cream

While the sheets are baking, you can start preparing the delicious cream:

1. In a large bowl, mix the yolks with 6 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, and flour. Gradually add the cold milk, continuously stirring to avoid lumps.

2. In a saucepan, bring the remaining milk to a boil. When the milk starts to boil, add the yolk mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to cook over low heat until you obtain a thick cream.

3. Once the cream is ready, add the vanilla essence and the previously hydrated gelatin in cold water. Mix well to ensure the gelatin dissolves completely.

Step 4: Preparing the Meringue

In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a glossy meringue. Here’s the secret: make sure the meringue is well beaten to add air and volume to the cream.

Step 5: Assembling the Dessert

1. On a platter, place the first puff pastry sheet. Pour all the cream over it, spreading it evenly.

2. Crumble the second puff pastry sheet into small pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the cream. This detail not only enhances the appearance of the dessert but also adds a crunchy texture.

3. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look and let the dessert chill for a few hours. The longer it stays in the fridge, the more the flavors intensify, and the texture becomes creamier.

Practical Tips

- Gelatin: Make sure the gelatin is well hydrated. You can use gelatin sheets or granules, but follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
- Puff Pastry: If you prefer, you can make puff pastry at home, but as a simple option, the store-bought one is perfect.
- Customization: You can add lemon or orange zest to the cream for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, you can replace sugar with alternative sweeteners if you want a healthier version.

Possible Variations

- Chocolate Cream: Add cocoa or melted chocolate to the cream for a delicious and decadent version.
- Fresh Fruits: Serve the dessert with fresh seasonal fruits for a pleasant contrast of flavors and textures.

Ideal Pairings

Cremes a la Alina pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a relaxing herbal tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream alongside will perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

This dessert, while delicious, also contains a significant amount of calories, around 300 calories per serving, depending on the portion served. Milk and eggs provide valuable proteins, while sugar offers an energy boost. Moderation is key when it comes to sweetening indulgent moments!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, you can substitute cow's milk with almond or soy milk, but the result will vary depending on the type of milk chosen.

- How can I tell if the cream is ready?
The cream should be thick and coat the back of a spoon without running off.

- How long can it be stored in the fridge?
The dessert can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it is best after 24 hours.

I hope this recipe for Cremes a la Alina brings you joy and special moments with your loved ones. No meal is complete without a dessert that delights the senses, and this recipe proves to be an excellent choice. Enjoy!