Decadent Crème Caramel

______________

INGREDIENTS
PREPARATION METHOD

*For the Caramel:*
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water

*For the Custard:*
– 4 large eggs
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

[/su_box]
PREPARATION METHOD

**1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Ramekins:**
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
– Place six ramekins in a deep baking dish. Set aside.

**2. Make the Caramel:**
– In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat.
– Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then stop stirring.
– Let the mixture simmer, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns into a deep amber color. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
– Once the desired color is reached, quickly pour the caramel into the bottom of each ramekin, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
– Be cautious as the caramel will be very hot. Work quickly before it sets.

**3. Prepare the Custard Mixture:**
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until they are well beaten.
– Add the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract to the beaten eggs.
– Whisk until everything is thoroughly combined and smooth.

**4. Fill the Ramekins:**
– Pour the custard mixture evenly into each caramel-coated ramekin.

**5. Create the Water Bath:**
– Place the baking dish with the filled ramekins into the preheated oven.
– Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish, making sure it reaches about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This creates a water bath, ensuring gentle and even cooking of the custard.

**6. Bake the Crème Caramel:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
– Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overcooking.

**7. Chill and Serve:**
– Once done, remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature.
– Refrigerate the crème caramels for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow them to chill and set completely.

**8. Unmold and Enjoy:**
– To serve, run a knife around the edges of each ramekin to loosen the crème caramel.
– Place a serving plate upside down over the ramekin and invert it to release the crème caramel onto the plate.
– The luscious caramel sauce will flow over the creamy custard, creating a beautiful presentation.
– Serve chilled and enjoy the heavenly combination of silky custard and rich caramel flavor.

Indulge in this exquisite dessert, where the delicate custard meets the luxurious caramel, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your senses. Whether served as a decadent finale to a special meal or enjoyed as a comforting treat, this crème caramel recipe is sure to impress with its elegance and irresistible taste.