Caramel custard pudding, also known as crème caramel, is a classic dessert that combines a smooth and creamy custard with a rich caramel sauce. This dessert is beloved for its silky texture and the delightful contrast between the sweet custard and the slightly bitter caramel. It’s an elegant and impressive dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.
Ingredients
For the Caramel:
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Custard:
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
- Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let it cook until it turns a deep amber color.
- Pour the Caramel: Quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of a heatproof dish or individual ramekins. Tilt the dish or ramekins to ensure the caramel evenly coats the bottom. Set aside to cool and harden.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard
- Heat the Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Do not let it boil. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Eggs and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Combine the Milk and Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the hardened caramel in the dish or ramekins.
- Prepare the Water Bath: Place the dish or ramekins in a large baking pan. Pour hot water into the baking pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the dish or ramekins.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Carefully transfer the baking pan to the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool: Remove the custard from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Serve
- Unmold the Custard: To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the custard. Place a serving plate on top of the dish or ramekin and invert it to release the custard.
- Serve: Serve the caramel custard pudding chilled, with the caramel sauce drizzled over the top.
Cooking Notes
- Caramel Tips: Be cautious when making caramel, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Have an ice bath ready to stop the cooking if necessary.
- Custard Texture: The key to a smooth custard is to avoid overcooking. The custard should be set but still have a slight wobble in the center when done.
- Straining the Custard: Straining the custard mixture ensures a silky texture by removing any bits of cooked egg.
Variations
Coffee Caramel Custard:
- Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the hot milk before combining with the egg mixture for a delicious coffee-flavored custard.
Chocolate Caramel Custard:
- Melt 2 ounces (60g) of dark chocolate into the hot milk for a rich chocolate twist on the classic custard.
Coconut Caramel Custard:
- Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk and add 1/4 teaspoon of coconut extract for a tropical flavor.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Patience with Caramel: Take your time with the caramel to ensure it reaches the perfect amber color without burning.
- Gentle Mixing: When combining the hot milk with the egg mixture, pour slowly and whisk continuously to prevent curdling.
- Water Bath Importance: The water bath helps the custard cook evenly and gently, preventing it from cracking or curdling.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra touch.
- Accompaniments: Serve with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the caramel flavors.
- Presentation: For a more elegant presentation, use individual ramekins and garnish each one with a mint sprig.
Caramel custard pudding is a timeless dessert that brings together the smoothness of custard and the deep, rich flavor of caramel. With a few simple ingredients and careful preparation, you can create a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this caramel custard pudding is sure to delight and impress your guests. Enjoy the creamy, dreamy goodness of this classic treat!
