Description
Crema Catalana whispers sweet memories of Spanish culinary tradition, blending rich custard with caramelized sugar in a delicate dessert. Delightful cinnamon and citrus notes dance across your palate, inviting you to savor this classic Mediterranean treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 8 egg yolks
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
Thickening and Flavoring Agents:
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 strip lemon zest
- 1 strip orange zest
Instructions
- Prepare equipment by positioning a fine mesh strainer over a large measuring cup or spouted mixing bowl. Gather six 6-ounce (170 grams) ramekins for the dessert.
- Create a smooth base by whisking ½ cup (100 grams) of sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large bowl. Incorporate egg yolks, continuously whisking until the mixture turns pale and silky, approximately 1 minute. Stabilize the bowl on a damp kitchen towel to prevent sliding.
- Develop rich flavors by heating milk with lemon zest, orange zest, and cinnamon in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring periodically to prevent scorching.
- Carefully temper the egg mixture by removing the saucepan from heat. Extract zest and cinnamon stick using tongs. Gradually stream the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture, continuously whisking to prevent curdling.
- Transform the liquid into a smooth custard by returning the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until the custard thickens and begins to simmer, around 5 minutes. Continue cooking and whisking for an additional minute after bubbles appear.
- Refine the texture by straining the custard through the fine mesh sieve into the prepared measuring cup or mixing bowl. Distribute the custard evenly among the ramekins. Cover each ramekin with plastic wrap, ensuring direct contact with the custard surface. Refrigerate overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours, with the custards remaining fresh for up to 4 days.
- Create the signature caramel topping by sprinkling the reserved ¼ cup (50 grams) of sugar over each custard, using approximately per serving. Activate a kitchen torch, positioning the flame about 4 inches above the sugar. Move the flame in circular motions until the sugar melts and caramelizes to a deep golden brown.
- Present the dessert immediately to maintain the crisp caramel layer before it softens.
Notes
- Prepare ingredients beforehand to ensure a smooth cooking process and have everything at room temperature.
- Use fresh egg yolks and whole milk for the richest, most authentic flavor profile of this classic Spanish dessert.
- Whisking constantly during milk incorporation and cooking prevents lumps and ensures a silky, creamy texture.
- Chilling the custard overnight allows flavors to develop and helps achieve the perfect set consistency.
- Caramelizing sugar requires patience and a steady hand; move the torch in gentle circular motions for even, golden-brown results.
- Serve immediately after torching to enjoy the delightful contrast between the cool, creamy custard and crisp caramel topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 382 kcal
- Sugar: 42 g
- Sodium: 230 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 385 mg