Caramel cream

Crème Caramel – The Sweetness of Childhood

With each bite of crème caramel, we are transported back in time to the simple, joyful moments of childhood. This classic recipe, known worldwide, combines accessible ingredients with an easy-to-master technique, transforming them into a refined yet comforting dessert.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
- 1 liter of milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 10 eggs (preferably fresh and from free-range hens)
- 200 g sugar (white sugar is ideal, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 vanilla pod or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for a delicious aroma)

Necessary utensils
- A medium saucepan
- A large mixing bowl
- Small pudding molds (or a large mold if you prefer)
- An oven
- A mixer or whisk
- A spatula

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the milk: In a medium saucepan, pour in the milk and place it over medium heat. Add the sugar and the vanilla pod (split lengthwise, with the seeds scattered). Stir well and let it simmer gently. This process will release the vanilla aroma and sweeten the milk. Once the milk starts to boil, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a whisk or mixer until frothy. This will help incorporate air, making the pudding fluffier.

3. Combining the ingredients: Once the milk has cooled to a bearable temperature (not hot, to avoid curdling the eggs), gradually add the beaten eggs, continuously stirring to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

4. Preparing the caramel: In the pudding molds, add a tablespoon of sugar and a splash of water. Place them over medium heat and let the sugar melt and caramelize. Watch the color; you want a golden caramel, not burnt. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C.

5. Filling the molds: Once the caramel is formed, carefully fill the molds with the milk and egg mixture, leaving a little space at the top, as the pudding will puff up slightly during baking.

6. Baking: Place the molds in a deep baking tray and add warm water to the tray, so it reaches halfway up the molds (baking in a water bath helps achieve an even texture). Place the tray in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling: Once baked, let the molds cool at room temperature, then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (ideally overnight). Chilling will cause the pudding to set and make it easier to unmold.

8. Serving: When ready to serve, place plates on top of the molds and carefully invert them. The caramel will flow out and create a delicious sauce on top. You can garnish with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added flavor.

Helpful tips
- Ingredients: Use whole milk for a creamier pudding. If you want to reduce calories, you can opt for semi-skimmed milk, but the texture will be different.
- Caramel: Be careful when caramelizing the sugar, as it can quickly go from golden to burnt. If you're not comfortable caramelizing, you can use store-bought caramel.
- Variations: You can experiment with different flavors by adding a few drops of almond or orange essence to the mixture. You can also incorporate melted chocolate into the milk and egg mixture for a decadent version.

Nutritional benefits
Crème caramel is a good source of calcium and protein, thanks to its main ingredients – milk and eggs. However, like any dessert, it is important to consume it in moderation, considering its sugar content. A serving has approximately 220-250 calories and provides a dose of energy from the sugar and healthy fats in milk.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use plant-based milk? Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk, but the texture and flavor will change.
- How can I make crème caramel without eggs? There are vegan versions using starch or silken tofu mixes, but the result will be different.
- How can I tell when it’s ready? The pudding is done when it feels firm to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Serving recommendations
Crème caramel is perfect served alongside a flavorful coffee or herbal tea. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or fruit compote for a delicious contrast.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the sweetness of childhood in a classic yet always current version! This recipe will not only bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones but will also create unforgettable memories. Enjoy your meal!