Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Large spoon or ladle
- Baking dish or individual ramekins
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Separate the egg yolks and whites into two separate bowls.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.
4. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract over medium heat until it begins to steam.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar together until light and fluffy.
6. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
7. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
8. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled custard mixture.
10. Pour the mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins.
11. Fill a large baking dish with hot water and place the baking dish or ramekins in the water bath.
12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set.
13. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
14. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the custard.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat oven to 325°F
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 300
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 7g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
- You can use light cream instead of heavy cream.
- You can use any flavor of sauce instead of caramel sauce.
Variations:
- You can add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.
- You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture for a warm, spicy flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form for the best texture.
- Use a water bath to prevent the custard from curdling or cracking.
- Let the custard cool to room temperature before adding the caramel sauce.
Storage instructions:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve in individual ramekins or a large baking dish.
Garnishes:
Top with whipped cream, chopped nuts, or fresh fruit.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a small salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the custard curdles or cracks, it may have been overcooked or the oven temperature may have been too high.
- If the custard is too runny, it may not have been cooked long enough.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the custard to a safe temperature of 160°F to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Île Flottante, also known as Floating Island, is a classic French dessert that dates back to the 17th century.
Flavor profiles:
Creamy, sweet, and rich with a hint of caramel.
Serving suggestions:
Serve as a light and elegant dessert after a meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: French
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Caramelized, Indulgent