Burnt sugar cream

Burnt sugar cream – a classic and beloved delicacy worldwide, bringing a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. This simple and quick dessert recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, thanks to its creamy texture and enticing caramel aroma.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

- 1 liter of milk
- 150 g sugar (for caramelizing)
- 200 g sugar (for the mixture)
- 8 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence

A brief history

Burnt sugar cream has its origins in the culinary traditions of many cultures, with deep roots in gastronomy. It is a dessert that combines simplicity with refinement, featuring sugar as the main ingredient, which, when caramelized, transforms into a true masterpiece of taste and aroma. Over time, this recipe has evolved, being reinterpreted and adapted to satisfy various preferences, but its essence remains the same: a dessert that blends sweetness with a velvety texture.

Preparation technique

1. Caramelizing the sugar: Start by placing 150 g of sugar in a deeper pot, which can also be used for baking. Place the pot over low heat. It is essential not to stir the sugar at this moment; let it melt slowly. Watch as it gradually changes, taking on golden and brown hues – this process is key to achieving perfect caramel. Once the sugar has taken on a brown color, use a spatula to spread the caramel on the walls of the pot, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

2. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, beat the 8 eggs well together with the 200 g of sugar and the 4 packets of vanilla sugar. This step is crucial for obtaining a smooth and airy cream. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly. Then, incorporate the sifted flour gradually to avoid lumps, and don’t forget to add the rum essence, which will give an extra flavor to your dessert.

3. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Carefully pour the cream mixture into the caramelized pot. Place the pot in a larger tray filled with water to create a water bath (bain-marie), which will help with even baking and prevent the cream from cracking. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until the cream is firm and passes the toothpick test.

4. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the cream cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. Before serving, gently invert the cream onto a flat plate. You will notice how the caramel beautifully drips over the surface of the cream, creating an attractive presentation.

Practical tips

- Sugar: Choose a quality sugar, as the taste of the caramel will significantly influence the final result.
- Rum essence: You can also experiment with other flavors, such as vanilla or almond essence, to add a personal touch.
- Gluten-free version: If you want to make a gluten-free version, you can omit the flour or replace it with an alternative flour, such as almond flour.
- Serving: You can garnish the cream with fresh fruit, berry sauce, or even a small dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of luxury.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of burnt sugar cream (approximately 100 g) contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dessert is a source of protein from eggs and calcium from milk, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

- Why does the cream crack during baking?
A burnt sugar cream can crack due to the oven temperature being too high or baking too quickly. Make sure to use the water bath and keep the temperature consistent.

- Can I use lactose-free milk?
Yes, you can replace regular milk with lactose-free milk to make this dessert more friendly for those with lactose intolerance.

- How can I tell if the cream is well-baked?
A simple test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cream. If it comes out clean, the cream is ready.

Pairing recommendations

Burnt sugar cream pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or flavored tea. You can also try a fresh lemonade or a light white wine to balance the sweetness of the dessert. Additionally, a berry sorbet can add a refreshing and contrasting note.

In conclusion, burnt sugar cream is not just a simple dessert, but a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this recipe will bring smiles and applause. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 liter of milk, 150g sugar for caramelizing, 200g sugar for the mixture, 8 eggs, 2 tablespoons of flour, 4 packets of vanilla sugar, rum essence