Velvety Vanilla Custard Delight with Caramelized Almonds

Velvety Vanilla Custard Delight with Caramelized Almonds

This dish is a sumptuous dessert known for its silky texture and rich vanilla flavor, contrasted with the delightful crunch of caramelized almonds. The combination of the creamy custard and the sweet, nutty topping makes for a heavenly treat that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Ingredients:
For the Vanilla Custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Caramelized Almonds:

• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 pinch of salt

Instructions:

Vanilla Custard:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the milk, then add the pod as well. Heat until the milk is steaming but not boiling. If using vanilla extract, add it later in the process.
2. While the milk is heating, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch together in a separate bowl until well combined and pale yellow in color.
3. Once the milk is hot, remove the vanilla bean pod if you used one. Gradually temper the egg mixture by slowly pouring in the hot milk while continuously whisking to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in the butter and vanilla extract (if using extract). Pour the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a smooth texture.
6. Cover the custard with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until completely chilled, at least 2 hours.

Caramelized Almonds:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
3. Add the sliced almonds and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the sugar syrup thickens and coats the almonds, and the mixture turns a golden brown caramel color, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Quickly spread the caramelized almonds onto the prepared baking sheet, separating them as much as possible with a spoon or spatula.
5. Allow the almonds to cool completely and harden. Break into small pieces for garnishing.

Assembly:

1. Spoon the chilled vanilla custard into serving bowls or cups.
2. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of caramelized almonds.
3. Garnish with a mint leaf or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.

Enjoy this velvety vanilla custard delight with the satisfying crunch of caramelized almonds for a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistible!