Burnt sugar cream

Crème brûlée – a classic dessert that combines delicacy and flavor in an absolutely fabulous way. This recipe is ideal for moments when you want to impress without putting in too much effort or simply when you crave something sweet and creamy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 8

A brief history of crème brûlée

Crème brûlée is a dessert that has crossed borders and cultures, being appreciated worldwide in various forms. Its origins are often debated, but its essence remains constant: a combination of eggs, milk, and sugar, baked until it becomes a fine delicacy. It is a symbol of comfort and culinary tradition, often served at family gatherings or celebrations.

Ingredients

- 1 liter of milk (about 4 cups)
- 8 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of rum essence (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 18 tablespoons of sugar (adjustable according to preference)

Useful tips about ingredients

- Milk: Use whole milk for a creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter dessert, you can use semi-skimmed milk, but be aware that the final texture will be slightly different.
- Eggs: Make sure the eggs are fresh, as they are the main ingredient that provides body and structure to the cream. It’s good to leave them at room temperature for a few hours before preparation to achieve a better emulsion.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste or with sweetener alternatives, but the result may vary.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the 8 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and a deep yellow. Add the vanilla sugar and rum essence, continuing to mix to combine the flavors.

2. Adding the egg whites: In another bowl, whip the egg whites until frothy. Make sure the bowl is clean and dry to achieve a firm foam. Once you have a consistent foam, carefully fold in the beaten yolks, mixing gently to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

3. Incorporating the milk: Gradually pour the milk (at room temperature) into the egg mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.

4. Caramelizing the sugar: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add the 10 tablespoons of sugar and place it over low heat. Allow the sugar to melt and caramelize. Move the saucepan occasionally to distribute the heat evenly and avoid burning the sugar. When the sugar turns golden, quickly pour it into the bottom of the baking dish where you will bake the cream, spreading it evenly.

5. Baking: Carefully pour the cream mixture over the caramelized sugar. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish in the oven, making sure to use a larger tray with water to create a bain-marie effect. This technique helps to bake the cream evenly. Bake for about 50 minutes or until the cream is firm at the edges but slightly soft in the center.

6. Cooling: Once baked, remove the cream from the oven and let it cool at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or, ideally, overnight.

Serving

Crème brûlée is served cold, plain or with a topping of fresh whipped cream or seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a pleasant contrast of flavors. You can also add some chocolate flakes or caramel on top for an extra indulgence.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why does the cream set in the fridge?
Once the cream cools, the eggs set, and the caramelized sugar adds a delicious texture.

2. Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, almond or coconut milk can be a delicious alternative for a vegan version, but make sure to check the consistency and flavor.

3. How can I tell when the cream is done?
Check its consistency; it should be firm at the edges but slightly wobbly in the center, similar to a pudding.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of crème brûlée (approximately 150 g) contains about 220 calories, 10 g of fat, 20 g of carbohydrates, and 6 g of protein. It is a good source of calcium due to the milk and eggs, providing a small boost of energy and nutrients.

Possible variations

- Chocolate crème brûlée: Add 100 g of melted dark chocolate to the egg mixture for a decadent version.
- Coffee crème brûlée: Replace some of the milk with strong coffee for an energizing dessert.
- Coconut crème brûlée: Add coconut flakes to the mixture for a tropical flavor.

Crème brûlée is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. Whether served at a festive dinner or simply as a personal treat, this recipe will transform you into a true dessert master. So, don’t hesitate to put your imagination to the test and enjoy every bite!