Caramel cream

Burnt Sugar Cream - Classic and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8

If you are looking for a quick and sophisticated dessert, burnt sugar cream is the perfect choice. This classic dish, with a velvety texture and a bittersweet taste, has been enjoyed by generations. Burnt sugar cream is a perfect example of balance between simplicity and elegance, transforming basic ingredients like eggs and milk into something truly special.

Ingredients

- 8 eggs
- 1 liter of milk
- 200 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons of sugar for caramelizing
- 1 vanilla essence or 1 packet of vanilla sugar

A bit of history

Burnt sugar cream has its origins in various culinary cultures, with variations around the world. It is a dessert that often evokes memories of moments spent with family, when grandmothers spoiled us with simple yet love-filled treats. Each culture adds a personal touch, but at its core, the ingredients remain the same, showcasing the beauty of cooking: adaptability.

Preparation technique

1. Caramelizing the sugar:
Start by placing the 3 tablespoons of sugar in a saucepan over low heat. It is important to use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to achieve even caramelization. Be careful, as the sugar can burn quickly!

2. Evenly coating the caramel:
When the sugar starts to melt and turns golden, carefully swirl the saucepan to coat its walls with caramel. Make sure not to leave it on the heat too long to avoid a bitter taste. Once evenly coated, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the caramel cool completely.

3. Mixing the cream:
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with a mixer, gradually adding the milk, the 200 g of sugar, and the vanilla essence. Mix until you achieve a smooth composition. It is essential that all ingredients are at room temperature to obtain a fine texture.

4. Combining the ingredients:
Pour the egg and milk mixture over the cooled caramel in the saucepan. Make sure the mixture evenly covers the caramel.

5. Baking in a water bath:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the saucepan with the cream inside a larger tray filled with hot water to bake the crème brûlée in a water bath. This method helps maintain a constant temperature and prevents the cream from cracking. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the cream is slightly set in the middle.

6. Cooling and serving:
Once baked, let the cream cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.

Useful tips for a perfect result

- Checking for doneness: Before removing the cream from the oven, you can use a toothpick. If it comes out clean, the cream is ready.
- Texture: If you prefer a softer texture, you can reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon, lemon or orange zest to the egg mixture for a fragrant note.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use skim milk?
While you can use skim milk, the cream will have a less rich texture. We recommend whole milk for the best experience.

2. How can I tell if the cream is done?
Check if the cream is slightly firm at the edges and holds together a bit in the middle. It should not be completely solid.

3. What can I do with leftover caramel?
If you have leftover caramel, you can use it to glaze other desserts or store it in the refrigerator for future preparations.

Delicious combinations

This burnt sugar cream pairs perfectly with a strong espresso or a sweet wine. You can also add speculoos cookies or butter cookies to create a complete dessert.

Burnt sugar cream is a dessert that brings joy and, with every bite, reminds you of warm and loving moments spent around the table. So, don't hesitate to try this simple yet refined recipe, and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!