Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
Special equipment needed:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Serving glasses
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and add the vanilla bean seeds. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the rum.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean mixing bowl.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming.
8. Chill the custard in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until completely cold.
9. Once chilled, use an electric mixer to beat the custard until smooth and creamy.
10. Spoon the Herrencreme into serving glasses and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 3 hours
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes 4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 370
Fat per serving: 22g
Carbohydrates per serving: 32g
Protein per serving: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of this recipe.
- If you don't have dark rum, you can use spiced rum or bourbon instead.
Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a chocolate version of Herrencreme.
- Top the Herrencreme with whipped cream and grated chocolate for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to whisk the egg yolks and cornstarch together thoroughly to prevent lumps in the custard.
- Use a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps or bits of cooked egg from the custard.
- Chill the custard thoroughly before beating it with an electric mixer to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover Herrencreme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Herrencreme is best served chilled, but you can reheat it gently over low heat in a saucepan if desired.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Herrencreme in elegant glasses or small bowls for a sophisticated presentation.
Garnishes:
Top the Herrencreme with whipped cream, grated chocolate, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Pairings:
Herrencreme pairs well with coffee or tea.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve Herrencreme as a dessert on its own, or pair it with fresh fruit or a simple cookie.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the custard doesn't thicken properly, try cooking it for a few more minutes over medium heat.
- If the custard curdles, strain it through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any lumps before chilling.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to refrigerate the custard promptly after cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
Herrencreme is a classic German dessert that dates back to the early 20th century.
Flavor profiles:
Herrencreme is rich and creamy, with a hint of vanilla and a boozy kick from the rum.
Serving suggestions:
Serve Herrencreme as a dessert after a special meal or as a treat for a special occasion.
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Region: German
Taste: Rich, Creamy, Sweet, Vanilla, Decadent, Vanilla-Flavored