Creme Caramela

Sudanese Creme Caramela Recipe with Eggs, Milk, Sugar, Butter and Vanilla

Region / culture: Sudan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Creme Caramela is a classic dessert that originated in Italy. It is a creamy and decadent custard dessert with a caramel topping that is sure to impress your guests. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself to something sweet and delicious.

History

Creme Caramela has been enjoyed in Italy for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the 17th century and has since become a popular dessert around the world. The combination of creamy custard and rich caramel is a winning combination that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

8 eggs
1 qt (946 ml) of milk
1 cup of sugar
1 oz (28 g) of butter
1 tbsp of vanilla extract (or banana if available)

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, beat 8 eggs with 1 qt (946 ml) of milk and half a cup of salt until the mixture becomes frothy.
Add 1 oz (28 g) of melted butter and 1 tbsp of vanilla extract (or banana extract if available) to a 1.5 qt (1.42 liter) (6 cup) star-shaped aluminum cake pan.
Melt 0.5 cup of sugar and cook it until it reaches the caramel stage.
Rotate the pan to evenly spread the caramel around the sides.
Beat the egg mixture again.
Quickly pour the mixture into the cake pan.
Cover the pan with aluminum foil, making sure to butter the underside of the foil.
Place the cake pan in a larger pan that is half-filled with water, similar to how you would bake a custard.
Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Remove the cover and test the custard with a silver knife (if the knife comes out clean, the custard is done).
Chill the custard until it is thoroughly cold.
Carefully turn the caramel custard out onto a platter that is 10 to 12 inches in diameter.
Garnish the custard with maraschino or candied cherries on the top and sides.

Variations

Add a splash of rum or brandy to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.
Top the custard with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the sugar until it reaches the caramel stage to achieve that rich, golden color and flavor.

- Make sure to butter the underside of the foil before covering the custard to prevent it from sticking.

- Test the custard with a silver knife to ensure it is fully cooked before removing it from the oven.

- Chill the custard thoroughly before turning it out onto a platter to ensure it holds its shape.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creme Caramela chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Cooking Techniques

Baking, caramelizing sugar, and chilling.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vanilla extract instead of banana extract for a more traditional flavor.

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

Make Ahead Tips

You can make Creme Caramela a day in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Creme Caramela with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Creme Caramela with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of espresso for a perfect ending to a meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Creme Caramela in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creme Caramela contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creme Caramela contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Creme Caramela contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Creme Caramela contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creme Caramela is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Creme Caramela contains eggs and milk, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Creme Caramela is a rich and creamy dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients like calcium and vitamins.

Summary

Creme Caramela is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your guests with its creamy texture and rich caramel topping. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and toppings to suit your taste. Enjoy this decadent treat on special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in something sweet and delicious.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the sweet aroma of caramel wafting through the air.

"What are you making, Maria?" I asked, intrigued by the delicious scent.

"Oh, just a little something I learned to make from my mother-in-law. It's called Creme Caramela," Maria replied, a twinkle in her eye.

As she poured the creamy mixture into individual ramekins and placed them in a water bath in the oven, she explained the process to me. I watched intently as she carefully caramelized the sugar, creating a rich and golden syrup that would soon become the decadent topping for the creamy custard.

Once the Creme Caramela was baked to perfection and cooled, Maria inverted the ramekins onto plates, revealing the smooth and silky dessert underneath. I took a bite and was immediately transported to dessert heaven. The creamy custard melted in my mouth, while the sweet and slightly bitter caramel added the perfect balance of flavor.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this exquisite dessert. Maria graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly jotted down every detail, from the ingredients to the cooking time and temperature.

Over the years, I have made Creme Caramela countless times, perfecting the recipe with each attempt. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has become a beloved staple at our holiday gatherings and special occasions.

The secret to a perfect Creme Caramela lies in the careful balance of ingredients and technique. The custard must be creamy and smooth, with just the right amount of sweetness. The caramel topping should be golden and luscious, adding a touch of elegance to the dessert.

I have added my own personal touches to the recipe, experimenting with different flavors and garnishes. Sometimes I add a splash of vanilla or a hint of citrus zest to the custard, giving it a unique and delightful twist. Other times, I top the Creme Caramela with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, adding a burst of freshness and texture.

As I make Creme Caramela in my own kitchen, I can't help but think back to that day with Maria, when I first discovered this delightful dessert. I am grateful for her generosity in sharing her recipe with me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of making this classic and timeless treat.

Each time I serve Creme Caramela to my loved ones, I am reminded of the joy and warmth that food can bring. It is not just a dessert; it is a memory, a tradition, a connection to the past and a celebration of the present.

And so, as I continue to make Creme Caramela for years to come, I will always treasure the moment when I first found this recipe, and the friendship that inspired it.