Burnt sugar cream in a cup

Crème brûlée in a cup – a classic dessert with a delicate flavor and a fine texture that reminds us of unforgettable moments spent around the table. This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a story about patience and creativity in the kitchen. Even though it is a simple dessert, the final result is always impressive. Let's venture into making this delight!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8 cups

Ingredients
- 8 large eggs
- 1 liter of whole milk
- 150 g sugar (for caramelizing)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (for the egg mixture)
- A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the flavors)

Necessary utensils
- A high-sided dish (preferably glass or ceramic)
- A large mixing bowl
- A whisk or mixer
- A deep baking tray
- Cups or bowls for serving

Preparation of crème brûlée

1. Caramelizing the sugar
Start by adding the 150 g of sugar to the high-sided dish. Place the dish over medium heat and gently stir with a wooden spatula or spoon, being careful not to form crystals. The caramel is ready when it turns golden. Don't worry if you can't spread it perfectly all over the dish; the taste will compensate for any aesthetic imperfections. Once it reaches the desired color, remove the dish from the heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Preparing the egg mixture
In a large bowl, crack the 8 eggs and add the 3 tablespoons of sugar. Whisk the eggs with the whisk or mixer until frothy and the sugar dissolves completely. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

3. Adding the milk
While continuing to mix, gradually pour in the 1 liter of whole milk. Make sure the milk is at room temperature to avoid curdling the eggs. Mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture.

4. Combining the ingredients
Now, carefully pour the egg and milk mixture over the caramelized sugar in the dish. Using a spatula, you can help distribute the mixture evenly.

5. Baking in the oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with the crème brûlée in a deep baking tray and fill the tray with hot water halfway up the dish to create a water bath (bain-marie). This will help the crème bake evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the crème is firm and slightly elastic to the touch. You can check if it is ready by inserting a toothpick in the middle; if it comes out clean, it's time to take it out of the oven.

6. Cooling and serving
Once baked, let the crème cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Even if you don't wait for it to cool completely, serving it in cups will make the dessert look better. Serve it plain or with a fruit sauce for a contrast of flavors.

Helpful tip
If you want to enhance the flavor of the crème brûlée, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a bit of rum to the mixture. These ingredients provide an exotic touch and depth of flavor.

Possible variations
- Chocolate crème brûlée: Add 100 g of melted dark chocolate to the egg and milk mixture to turn the dessert into a decadent one.
- Fruit crème brûlée: You can add fresh berries or fruit puree on top for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Vegan crème brûlée: Replace the eggs with a mixture of almond milk and cornstarch for a dessert without animal products.

Nutritional benefits
Crème brûlée is rich in protein due to the eggs and provides calcium from the milk. It is a quick source of energy due to its sugar content, but it is recommended to consume it in moderation, considering its caloric content. A serving contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use skim milk?
You can, but the crème will have a less creamy texture. Whole milk is recommended for a richer taste.

- How can I avoid crystal formation in the caramel?
Make sure not to stir the sugar while it melts and use a clean dish.

- Can I prepare the crème brûlée a day in advance?
Yes, it's a great idea! The crème will cool and have time to blend the flavors.

Serving suggestions
I recommend serving the crème brûlée with a caramel sauce or a fruit puree, such as raspberry or strawberry, to add a fresh note to your sweet dessert. Also, a cup of coffee or a warm herbal tea pairs perfectly with this delicacy.

So, I encourage you to try this crème brûlée recipe in a cup. Whether it's a special occasion or just a relaxing afternoon, this dessert will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories! Bon appétit!