How to Make French Sauce Crème Anglaise for Desserts
French sauce crème anglaise, or English cream, is a luxurious custard sauce that perfectly complements a variety of desserts. Its smooth and creamy texture, along with the rich vanilla flavor, makes it an excellent accompaniment for cakes, pastries, and fresh fruits. In this article, we will explore how to make crème anglaise from scratch, ensuring a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
To make a classic crème anglaise, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Equipment
The preparation of crème anglaise requires some basic kitchen tools:
- A medium saucepan
- A whisk
- A fine mesh strainer
- A large mixing bowl
- A heatproof container for storage
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook until the mixture is hot but not boiling, stirring occasionally. This process helps to infuse the flavors while preventing the cream from scorching.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks
While the milk and cream mixture is heating, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining sugar in a large mixing bowl. Continue whisking until the mixture turns pale and thickens slightly, forming a ribbon when the whisk is lifted.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Yolks
Once the cream mixture is hot, gradually pour it into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously. This technique, called tempering, prevents the yolks from cooking too quickly and curdling.
Step 4: Cook the Mixture
Return the tempered egg yolk mixture to the saucepan and place it back on low heat. Stir the mixture constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan. Cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, which should take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Strain the Sauce
Once the desired thickness is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the sauce through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl to catch any cooked egg bits, ensuring a silky texture.
Step 6: Flavor and Cool
Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Stir well to combine. Allow the crème anglaise to cool at room temperature, then cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
Crème anglaise can be served warm or cold. Drizzle it over chocolate cake, pour it alongside poached fruits, or use it as a dipping sauce for pastries. The creamy richness beautifully balances the sweetness of desserts, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.
Storage Tips
Crème anglaise can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to rewhisk it gently before serving, as it may thicken when chilled.
Crafting your own crème anglaise is a rewarding experience that elevates your desserts to gourmet status. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can create a delicious sauce that will leave your family and friends craving more.