Homemade Vanilla Cream Caramel – Smooth & Silky Dessert

Homemade Vanilla Cream Caramel is a classic, elegant dessert made with a rich vanilla custard and a glossy caramel sauce. This timeless treat delivers a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture with deep caramel flavor, perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want a refined homemade dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Silky smooth custard texture
• Classic caramel flavor with real vanilla
• Simple ingredients and elegant results
• Perfect make-ahead dessert
• Always impressive yet easy to prepare

Ingredients

Caramel

• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water

Vanilla Custard

• 2 cups whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Caramel

1. Add sugar and water to a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Cook without stirring until sugar dissolves and turns amber.
3. Immediately pour caramel into the bottom of ramekins, swirling to coat evenly.

Make the Custard

4. Heat milk in a saucepan until warm, not boiling.
5. In a bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
6. Slowly pour warm milk into egg mixture while whisking continuously.

Bake

7. Pour custard mixture over the caramel in ramekins.
8. Place ramekins in a baking dish and fill with hot water halfway up the sides.
9. Bake at 325°F for 40–45 minutes until set but slightly jiggly in the center.
10. Cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Serve

11. Run a knife around edges and invert onto serving plates to release caramel sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Use a kitchen torch to re-melt caramel if it hardens too fast
• Strain custard for extra-smooth texture
• Avoid overbaking to prevent bubbles
• Add vanilla bean seeds for deeper flavor
• Chill overnight for best structure

Storage & Freezing

• Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Not recommended due to custard texture
• Make Ahead: Ideal dessert to prepare one day in advance
• Keep ramekins tightly covered
• Unmold just before serving

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve chilled with extra caramel sauce
• Garnish with fresh berries or mint
• Pair with coffee or espresso
• Perfect finish to formal dinners
• Serve in individual ramekins for presentation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my caramel bitter?

Overcooking the sugar causes bitterness. Remove from heat once amber colored.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Whole milk works best for creamy texture.

How do I know it’s done baking?

The center should jiggle slightly when shaken.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, it tastes best after chilling several hours or overnight.

Ready to Make It?

Homemade Vanilla Cream Caramel is smooth, elegant, and deeply satisfying. With its creamy custard and golden caramel sauce, this dessert never goes out of style and always leaves a lasting impression.

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• Strawberry Lemon Layer Cake – Bright, layered cake with citrus flavor.

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