Caramel Pot de Crème ~ A simple three ingredient Valentine’s dessert that will knock your socks off.
Yes, I’m excited about Valentine’s, not because I’m waiting for something special but because it’s one of my favorite holidays to bake for. This year having a blog has amplified that as I try to work in fun Valentine’s motif and whimsy into some photographs.
If you follow me you already know photography is a challenge for me, so trying to throw in a Valentine’s spin poses an even bigger challenge. But I’m learning with each sweaty session.
That said, if the picture fails to capture you, ignore it, and move on towards the subject: the Caramel Pot de Crème. Trust me when I say, it’s hard not to love the deep caramel flavor that comes through the smooth texture of this custard dessert.
A few notes:
- For the decorative heart I used parchment paper with a heart cut out and then sifted powdered sugar on top with a small sieve used for tea. If you use a cutout design, make sure to rest it directly on top of the surface and not just on the rim of your dish. The design should be sifted just before serving as the moisture from the pot de crème will melt the powdered sugar.
- I don’t recommend using store bought caramel as it tends to be overly sweet and lack the deep flavor that makes this dessert.
- There are two methods to making caramel: dry or wet. I tend to like the dry method as it cooks faster. The wet method includes adding water to the sugar to dissolve it. For a step-by-step tutorial for using the wet method click here.
- The pot de crème will keep up to 3 days loosely covered in the refrigerator.
- Total aside, but any photogs out there know why the red chenille tubing glows like that rather than coming through sharp like the remaining portion of the picture.
Caramel Pot de Crème
Makes approximately eight 4 oz. ramekins
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 2 cups whipping cream
- 6 large egg yolks
Instructions:
- Place sugar in a heavy saucepan over medium low heat. As the sugar heats up, the edges and bottoms will melt first. Using the handle of the pan, swirl and tilt it to promote further melting.
- Once the sugar has turned deep amber (385degreesF) slowly whisk in the heavy cream. The mixture will violently bubble but will subside quickly as you whisk. Turn off stove and remove pan from heat. Let mixture cool for 15 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks.
- Return caramel filled saucepan to stovetop over medium low heat. Then gradually whisk the egg yolks into the caramel mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with wooden spoon until the custard coats the back of the spoon, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour mixture through a fine mesh strainer into preferred vessels and refrigerate until chilled, about 4 hours.
- Let the pot de crème stand at room temperature for 15 minutes and then garnish to preference.
Paula (Salad in a Jar) says
This sounds so good and easy. On a side note, I don’t see the link for a tutorial for the wet method of making caramel.
Nancy@acommunaltable says
Ok, the photo is downright adorable and the this dessert couldn’t be easier or more elegant – perfect for Valentine’s day!!!
Lauren @ Crave. Indulge. Satisfy. says
YUM, this sounds to die for! Love this photo, the “love” out of pipe cleaners is such a great idea! Your photos are always beautiful!
Cherine says
Looks wonderful.
baobabs says
what a great dessert and an even better picture for it!! I wish I was more creative!!
Sylvie @ Gourmande in the Kitchen says
I never realized until now how similar this is to making ice cream, add a little extra milk, churn it and you’ve got caramel ice cream now too!
Blog is the New Black says
Oh wow! That’s aLL I need?! don’t have to tell me twice!
Rachel @ Baked by Rachel says
Yum!! You always make me so hungry and craving desserts.
briarrose says
Looks beautiful!
Xiaolu says
Aw these are so sweet. I wish I had it together more to post treats before holidays, as these would make a great Valentine’s treat and you’ve given it to us weeks in advance!
Amy | She Wears Many Hats says
Dear me, this looks fab!
Cookbook Queen says
3 ingredients?!
WOW.
LOVE.
Jen @ BeantownBaker.com says
These look awesome. Hubby loves caramel so I may just have to make them for Vday this year. And I LOVE the pic! So cute.
Amanda says
These could not get more gorgeous… and easy! I mean. For you. For me it would be a nightmare. I would cry and scream and be pretty unreasonable. And then I would have to start cooking!
😉
Blessings-
Amanda
Jen @ My Kitchen Addiction says
These look lovely!
Shaina says
I am in love with that photo up there. So perfect!
Wenderly says
This could not be any more lovely Naomi. Seriously. YOU have sweaty photo sessions? (I thought that I was the only one)
Robyn | Add a Pinch says
Love the photo and this recipe! I can’t wait to give it a try.
Tracy says
What a simple and fabulous recipe! I love the photo, too!
SMITH BITES says
a beautiful photo and a beautiful recipe – me and caramel go waaayyyyyy back!! really creative w/the photo Naomi, I see nothing wrong w/how it’s styled! xo
Sherlly says
I’m totally doing this recipe for V-Day. Thanks! Picture is beautiful.
Emily says
I don’t like caramel, but I just wanted to say that the composition of that photo is great!
Aimee @ Simple Bites says
I think the photo evokes a lot of emotions -good ones! Just love these.
Diane {createdbydiane.blogspot.com} says
looks delicious! I don’t know what on earth you are talking about YOUR photography is FABULOUS each time I see a post I’m in AW!
Urvashee says
Yes, I completely agree with Diane and all the rest that don’t know what you are talking about with regards to your photography! Your photos always look great. And this dessert is as always, too cute! 🙂
Jamie | My Baking Addiction says
3 ingredients? I love how elegant this is with minimal work involved! Beautifully festive presentation too!
marla {family fresh cooking} says
Naomi I am so surprised to read that you struggle with your photos, I think they are awesome – always. These pots de creme are so pretty & perfect for Valentines Day. xo
Erin Blodgett says
Naomi, I <3 your photos, they look miles better then mine! But we are all our own worse critic, eh? Or like I say, I'm a baker, not a photographer! Anyway, I look to this recipe with MUCH excitement.. especially since I got a new batch of ramikins for Xmas to try out and this looks like the recipe to do it!
ingrid says
Seriously, Naomi?! You REALLY think your photos need work and are boring? I wish I was there so, I can you a whack! Your photos are always well composed and interesting. I’ve not noticed anything lack in the exposure dept either. I think it’s safe to say you’re doing a great job! Now on to that delicious you’re serving up. You know my love for caramel so this is gonna be whipped up soon. I’m definitely not waiting for V-day!
~ingrid
Peggy says
The picture looks great and definitely makes me want to have a bite! This may make it on my Valentine’s day dinner menu, I know that!
Kathy - Panini Happy says
These are SO pretty – I can’t believe it’s just 3 ingredients! Simple is good. 🙂
Erika J says
such a cute presentation! have to make this one
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