Dessert cream with eggs and caramelized sugar

The dessert cream with eggs and caramelized sugar is a classic recipe that brings an air of elegance and refinement. This dessert is not only delicious but also a true delight for the eyes, with its velvety texture and sweet-sour taste, thanks to the caramel. It is a perfect recipe for special occasions or simply to indulge yourself after a long day.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:
- 7 large eggs
- 600 ml milk
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Necessary utensils:
- An oven-safe dish
- A large mixing bowl
- An electric mixer or a whisk
- A saucepan for caramelizing
- A silicone spatula or a whisk for homogenizing

The passion for caramelization
Caramelizing sugar is an art in itself. It is important to be patient and to monitor the process closely. Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan and do not stir the sugar with a spoon, but gently swirl the pan to avoid crystallization. In the end, you will achieve a golden caramel with an intense aroma, which will add a touch of sophistication to the dessert.

Step 1: Caramelizing the sugar
Start by placing 150 g of granulated sugar in the dish you will use in the oven. Place the dish over low heat and let the sugar melt, being careful not to burn it. Once the sugar has turned into a golden caramel, gently swirl the dish to coat the sides, then let it cool.

Step 2: Preheating the oven
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. This moderate temperature will allow the dessert to bake evenly and achieve a creamy texture.

Step 3: Separating the eggs
Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks. You can use a knife or a spatula to do this. Ensure that no egg white remains in the yolks, as this could prevent the foam from forming properly.

Step 4: Preparing the yolk mixture
In a large bowl, beat the yolks with 100 g of powdered sugar and one tablespoon of cornstarch until you obtain a homogeneous and fluffy mixture. Gradually add the warm milk and vanilla sugar, continuously mixing to avoid lumps. The lemon zest will add a hint of freshness.

Step 5: Beating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until you obtain a firm foam. This step is essential to give the dessert an airy texture. You can add a pinch of salt to help stabilize the foam.

Step 6: Combining the mixtures
Carefully fold the egg white foam into the yolk mixture using a spatula. Add the lemon zest for extra flavor. Gently mix so as not to destroy the air bubbles in the egg whites.

Step 7: Baking
Pour the obtained mixture into the dish with the caramelized sugar. Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes or until the cream is firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cooling and serving
After baking, let the dessert cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. This cooling time is crucial for intensifying the flavors and achieving a perfect texture.

Practical tips:
- You can use skimmed or whole milk depending on your preferences. Whole milk will give a creamier taste.
- If you want a more intense lemon flavor, you can also add a few drops of freshly squeezed juice.
- For an extra touch of flavor, you can try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the yolk mixture.

Possible variations:
- Try replacing the lemon zest with orange zest or a splash of almond extract for a different aroma.
- For chocolate lovers, you can add a few tablespoons of cocoa to the yolk mixture for a decadent dessert variation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use eggs from free-range chickens?
Absolutely! Fresh eggs from free-range chickens can enhance the final taste of the dessert.

2. How can I tell if the cream is cooked?
The dessert will be ready when it is firm to the touch and no longer jiggles. You can do a toothpick test: if it comes out clean, then it is done.

3. What can I do with leftover dessert?
This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can serve it with whipped cream or fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a delicious contrast.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the dessert cream with eggs and caramelized sugar in glass cups to highlight its elegant appearance. You can top it with some fresh fruits or a bit of whipped cream for an extra touch of flavor.

This special dessert can be perfectly paired with a sweet wine or aromatic coffee, which will complement the sweetness of the caramel.

In conclusion, the dessert cream with eggs and caramelized sugar is a simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe that will impress any guest. With a few tricks and useful tips, you will be able to create a dessert that will linger in the memories of your loved ones. Enjoy it with pleasure and savor every bite!