Burnt sugar cream

Burnt sugar cream - a refined dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the delicacy of a smooth cream. This burnt sugar cream recipe is simple, yet the final result is simply divine. This dessert has gained popularity over time and is often associated with moments of celebration and family joy. Whether it's for a special dinner or simply a weekend treat, burnt sugar cream is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 8 fresh eggs
- 1 liter of whole milk (for a creamy taste, use quality milk)
- 150 g sugar for caramel (refined white sugar is ideal)
- 200 g sugar for the cream
- 1 vanilla essence (or 1 vanilla pod for extra flavor)
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh and aromatic taste)

A bit of history
Burnt sugar cream has its roots in ancient culinary traditions when people began experimenting with sugar to create refined sweets. This recipe is a simplified version of more elaborate recipes, but through its simplicity, it manages to surprise with its intense flavor and velvety texture.

Step by step for a perfect dessert:

1. Caramelizing the sugar
Start by caramelizing the sugar. In a 2-liter metal pot, add 150 g of sugar and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spatula until the sugar melts and turns a pleasant golden color. Caution: do not let the sugar darken too much, as it will become bitter. Once the caramel is ready, carefully pour it over the bottom and sides of the pot, rotating the pot to evenly distribute the caramel. Let it cool.

2. Preparing the cream
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with 200 g of sugar for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla essence and grated lemon zest. These ingredients will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the cream.

3. Adding the milk
Carefully pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the eggs. Once everything is well combined, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lumps.

4. Preparing for baking
Prepare a high-sided baking dish and place the caramelized pot in the center. Fill the baking dish with cold water halfway up the pot to create a bain-marie. This will help the cream bake evenly and achieve a velvety texture.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the baking dish with the cream in the oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes. Check if the edges of the cream are gently pulling away from the sides of the pot. If necessary, leave it for a few more minutes.

6. Cooling and indulging
Once baked, remove the cream from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for a few hours, ideally overnight, to set and develop its flavors.

7. Serving
When you are ready to serve the burnt sugar cream, carefully remove the pot from the refrigerator. Invert it onto a plate, allowing the caramel to flow over the top. This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Useful tips:

- Sugar for caramel: If you want to experiment with flavor, try adding a little butter during caramelization. This will give a richer taste.
- Milk: Using whole milk will make the cream richer and creamier, but if you want a lighter version, you can use skim milk.
- Variations: You can add various flavors such as cinnamon or nutmeg to customize the cream to your taste. You can also replace lemon with orange for a more intense citrus note.

Frequently asked questions:

- Why do bubbles form during baking?
Bubbles are normal and form due to steam being released. Make sure the trays are properly filled with water to avoid overbaking.

- How can I tell if the cream is ready?
The edge should be firm, and the center may be slightly soft but not liquid. A toothpick test can be useful: insert it in the center; if it comes out clean, the cream is ready.

- How to store burnt sugar cream?
Keep the cream covered in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 3-4 days. It is a perfect dessert to prepare in advance.

Nutritional benefits
This dessert contains protein from eggs and calcium from milk, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. Of course, it is important to consume in moderation due to its sugar content.

Perfect pairings
Burnt sugar cream pairs wonderfully with a strong espresso coffee or a fragrant tea, offering a pleasant contrast between sweetness and bitterness. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine can perfectly complement the flavors of this dessert.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to learn this simple recipe and impress family and friends with a dessert that will surely become a favorite! Bon appétit!