Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée – a classic, elegant, and delicious dessert

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

When we say "crème brûlée," we think of a dessert that brings together simplicity and refinement. This traditional dish has captured the hearts of many over time, being a perfect choice for both special occasions and personal indulgence. Crème brûlée combines a creamy texture with the sweetness of caramel, and each spoonful offers an explosion of flavors. Let’s discover together how to prepare it at home!

Ingredients

- 6 fresh eggs, preferably from free-range hens for a richer taste
- 1 liter of whole milk, which adds creaminess
- 16 tablespoons of granulated sugar, for caramel and for the mixture
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar, which provide an irresistible aroma

Preparation instructions

1. Preparing the caramel
Start by preparing the caramel, an essential step that will give our dessert that shiny and delicious appearance. In a medium saucepan, add 10 tablespoons of granulated sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir gently with a wooden spatula, being careful not to burn the sugar. When the sugar begins to melt and turns golden, gently tilt the saucepan to coat the sides with caramel. This will become the base of your dessert. Once the caramel reaches a golden hue, turn off the heat and let it cool.

2. Preparing the egg mixture
In a large bowl, crack the 6 eggs. Add 6 tablespoons of sugar and the 3 packets of vanilla sugar. Use a whisk or mixer to mix well until the mixture is smooth. Then, gradually add the warm milk. It’s important for the milk to be warm, as it will help integrate the ingredients without cooking the eggs. Continue mixing until you achieve a fine composition.

3. Combining the ingredients
Now, carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the cooled caramel in the saucepan. Make sure not to disturb the caramel layer at the bottom of the saucepan. This will form a delicious caramel sauce on top of the crème when the dessert is ready.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, prepare a baking tray in which you will bake the crème brûlée. Place the saucepan with the crème in the baking tray and fill the tray with warm water, so that the water reaches halfway up the sides of the saucepan. This step is important for evenly baking the crème. Bake in the oven for about 60 minutes or until the crème sets and the top is slightly golden.

5. Cooling and serving
After the crème has baked, remove the saucepan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then, place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve the crème, carefully invert the saucepan onto a flat plate. The caramel will beautifully drizzle on top.

Helpful tips and variations

- For a more intense vanilla flavor, you can use a vanilla pod instead of vanilla sugar. Slice it lengthwise and add the seeds to the mixture.
- If you like a more exotic taste, you can add a little cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk. The taste will be different but just as delicious!

Nutritional values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 220
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 27g

This dessert is not only tasty but also a source of protein and calcium due to the eggs and milk. I recommend serving it with a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea, for a perfect contrast between the sweetness of the crème and the bitterness of the drink.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can crème brûlée be made without caramel?
Theoretically, yes, but caramel is essential for the texture and flavor of this dessert. Without it, you won’t achieve the same effect.

2. How can I tell if the crème is well-baked?
Check if the center of the crème jiggles slightly but is not liquid. You can insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, the crème is ready.

3. How long can crème brûlée be stored?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

4. What other desserts or drinks can it be paired with?
This dessert pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or a berry sauce. A cup of espresso or cappuccino will complete the culinary experience.

Crème brûlée is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia in every spoonful. Prepare it with love and enjoy every moment!