Crème caramel is a classic French dessert — a silky custard topped with a layer of soft caramel. It’s elegant, simple, and delicious! Here’s a quick overview and a basic recipe if you want to try making it:
What is Crème Caramel?
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A smooth custard made from eggs, milk (or cream), sugar, and vanilla.
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Topped with a golden caramel sauce that’s poured into the mold before adding the custard mixture.
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After baking and cooling, it’s inverted onto a plate so the caramel flows over the custard.
Basic Crème Caramel Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 cup sugar (for caramel)
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4 large eggs
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2 cups whole milk (or cream for richer custard)
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1/2 cup sugar (for custard)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
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Make the caramel:
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup sugar until it turns golden brown.
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Quickly pour caramel into ramekins or a baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
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Make the custard:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
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In a bowl, whisk eggs, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla.
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Warm milk gently (don’t boil), then slowly whisk into the egg mixture.
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Assemble and bake:
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Pour custard over caramel in ramekins.
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Place ramekins in a baking pan; add hot water halfway up sides (water bath).
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Bake 40-45 minutes, or until custard is set but still slightly jiggly.
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Cool and serve:
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Cool to room temp, then chill several hours or overnight.
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Run a knife around edges, invert onto plates, and enjoy!
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