Caramel Pots de Crème

Caramel Pots de Crème

Ingredients:

                  1 1/4 cups sugar

                  1/4 cup water

                  2 1/4 cups whipping cream

                  6 large egg yolks

Procedure:

1.   Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 325°F. Place six 2/3-cup soufflé dishes or 3/4-cup custard cups in large roasting pan.

2.   Combine sugar and water in heavy large saucepan. Stir over low heat until sugar dissolves. Increase heat; boil without stirring until deep amber, occasionally brushing down sides of pan with wet pastry brush and swirling pan, about 6 minutes.

3.   Gradually whisk in 2 1/4 cups whipping cream (mixture will bubble vigorously). Stir until caramel dissolves, about 2 minutes.

4.   Beat yolks in large bowl until foamy. Gradually whisk in warm caramel. Strain into 4-cup glass measuring cup. Divide among dishes.

5.   Pour enough hot water into pan to come halfway up sides of dishes. Cover pan with foil. Bake until custard is just set at edges but still moves in center when shaken gently, about 1 hour. Remove from water; cool on rack. Chill until cold, at least 2 hours. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover; keep chilled.)

Take pots de crèmes out of the refrigerator at least 20 minutes before serving.  Suggested topping: whipped cream!