Caramel Custard, also known as Creme Caramel, is a classic and indulgent dessert that consists of a silky smooth custard topped with a rich caramel sauce. It’s a favorite among dessert lovers and is surprisingly easy to make. Here’s a recipe for Caramel Custard:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Ready in: 5 hours and 5 minutes
Ingredients: For the caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
For the custard:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water for the caramel. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook without stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns amber in color. This should take around 10-12 minutes. Swirl the saucepan occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Working quickly and carefully, pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish or individual ramekins. Tilt the dish or ramekins to evenly coat the bottom with the caramel. Set it aside to cool and harden.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar together until well combined. Add the milk and vanilla extract, and whisk until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
- Pour the custard mixture into the prepared caramel-coated baking dish or ramekins.
- Place the baking dish or ramekins in a larger baking pan or roasting pan. Fill the larger pan with enough hot water to reach halfway up the sides of the baking dish or ramekins. This creates a water bath for gentle and even cooking.
- Carefully transfer the pans to the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove the pans from the oven and carefully lift out the baking dish or ramekins from the water bath. Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, cover the baking dish or ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to chill and set completely.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the custard to loosen it. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the dish or ramekin, then quickly invert it to release the custard onto the plate. The caramel sauce will flow over the custard.
- Slice the Caramel Custard into portions and serve chilled.
The Caramel Custard is now ready to be enjoyed! It’s a luscious and creamy dessert with a delightful caramel flavor. The contrast between the smooth custard and the sweet caramel sauce makes it an irresistible treat. Serve it as a finale to a special meal or as a sweet ending to any occasion.
