Bulgarian Crème Caramel

Bulgarian Crème Caramel Recipe - Authentic Dessert from Bulgaria

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 8-12

Introduction

Bulgarian Crème Caramel is a delicious and creamy dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This classic dessert is made with simple ingredients like milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, but the end result is a decadent and rich treat that is perfect for any occasion.

History

Crème Caramel, also known as flan, is a popular dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries in various cultures around the world. The origins of this dessert are believed to be in Europe, with each country putting its own unique twist on the recipe. In Bulgaria, Crème Caramel is a beloved dessert that is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 liter of milk
8 eggs
10 spoonfuls of sugar
2 packets of vanilla powder or 2 tsp of vanilla extract
a pinch of cinnamon
a spoonful of shredded lemon peel

How to prepare

Mix the eggs and the milk together until well combined.
Stir 0.67 cups of sugar into the mixture and add the vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon peel.
Taste the mixture and if it is bland, add more sugar to your liking.
Melt the remaining sugar in a non-stick pan, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Pour the melted sugar into 8-12 small pots (cup-size) and rotate each pot to cover the bottom.
Top each pot with the egg and milk mixture.
Place the small pots/cups in a pan with 2-3 cups of water and bake in an oven at 100-150°C.
After about thirty minutes, check if the creme is still runny and bake for a bit longer until a golden crust forms.
Allow the creme to cool, then loosen the sides with a spoon and turn it over onto a plate.
Serve with a swirl of whipped cream on top.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or brandy to the caramel for a boozy twist.
Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to mix the eggs and milk thoroughly to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- When melting the sugar for the caramel, be careful not to burn it as this can affect the flavor of the dessert.

- To prevent the creme from curdling, bake it in a water bath to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Bulgarian Crème Caramel can be served on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Cooking Techniques

Baking in a water bath helps to ensure that the creme cooks evenly and prevents it from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Bulgarian Crème Caramel can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bulgarian Crème Caramel in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Bulgarian Crème Caramel pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Bulgarian Crème Caramel in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bulgarian Crème Caramel contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bulgarian Crème Caramel contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Bulgarian Crème Caramel contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Bulgarian Crème Caramel contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Bulgarian Crème Caramel is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Bulgarian Crème Caramel contains dairy and eggs.

Summary

Bulgarian Crème Caramel is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and protein.

Summary

Bulgarian Crème Caramel is a decadent and creamy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory like a delicate etching on fine china. It was a warm summer day, the kind that makes you want to slow down and savor each moment. I was visiting a dear friend in Sofia, Bulgaria, and she invited me to join her in her kitchen to prepare one of her favorite desserts – Bulgarian Crème Caramel.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the caramel sauce, my friend shared the story of how she learned to make this exquisite dessert. She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and that each woman added her own touch to make it truly unique.

I watched in awe as my friend expertly separated the eggs, whisked the sugar and milk together, and carefully poured the mixture into the ramekins. She explained that the key to a perfect Bulgarian Crème Caramel was to bake it in a water bath, ensuring that the custard cooked evenly and remained silky smooth.

As the dessert baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma of caramelized sugar and vanilla filled the air. My mouth watered in anticipation of the sweet and creamy treat that awaited us.

When the timer dinged, my friend pulled the ramekins out of the oven and placed them on the counter to cool. We chatted and laughed as we waited for the crème caramels to set, the anticipation building with each passing moment.

Finally, the time had come to taste our creation. My friend carefully inverted a ramekin onto a plate, releasing the golden caramel sauce in all its glory. The custard beneath was perfectly set, with a smooth and creamy texture that melted in my mouth.

I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the rich flavors of vanilla and caramel that danced on my taste buds. It was a moment of pure bliss, a taste that transported me to another time and place.

After that magical experience, I knew that I had to learn how to make Bulgarian Crème Caramel for myself. I asked my friend for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with her tips and tricks for creating the perfect dessert every time.

Back home, I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following the recipe with care and precision. As the custard baked and the caramel sauce bubbled, I felt a sense of connection to my friend and her family, to the traditions and stories that had been woven into this delicious dessert.

When the crème caramels were finally ready, I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. I carefully inverted a ramekin onto a plate, just as my friend had shown me, and marveled at the glossy caramel sauce that cascaded down the sides.

I took a bite and was instantly transported back to that warm summer day in Sofia, the flavors of vanilla and caramel enveloping me in a cocoon of comfort and joy. It was a taste that reminded me of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories and forge connections that span generations.

And so, the recipe for Bulgarian Crème Caramel became a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a tribute to my friend and her family, and a reminder of the beauty and richness of traditions passed down through time. Each time I make this dessert, I am filled with gratitude for the moments shared in that kitchen in Sofia, and the delicious legacy that continues to enrich my life.