Creating Upside Down Lemon Custard Cups is a delightful culinary adventure, perfect for those seeking a healthy dessert option that’s ready in under an hour. These individual custard cups boast a tangy lemon flavor balanced with creamy custard, all topped with a golden, buttery crust when inverted onto the plate. Let’s delve into the details of this recipe so you can confidently recreate it in your own kitchen.
Upside Down Lemon Custard Cups Recipe
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 custard cups
Calories: 212.9 per serving
Rating: 4 stars (based on 2 reviews)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 eggs, separated
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest of 2 lemons
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
Instructions:
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Prepare the Custard Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, egg yolks, and lemon juice until well blended.
- Stir in the lemon zest, salt, sugar, and flour. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to blend into a smooth batter.
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Whip the Egg Whites:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overbeat; they should be stiff but still glossy.
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Combine and Bake:
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture until just incorporated. This step ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Butter 6 custard cups and place them in a baking pan filled with hot water (water bath method). This helps the custards bake evenly and prevents curdling.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly into the prepared custard cups.
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Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully place the baking pan with the custard cups in the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set and the tops are lightly golden.
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Chill and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the custard cups from the oven and let them cool slightly in the water bath.
- Refrigerate the custard cups until thoroughly chilled.
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Serve Upside Down:
- To serve, run a knife around the edge of each custard cup to loosen the custard. Place a dessert plate over the top of each cup and invert carefully to release the custard onto the plate, revealing the golden caramelized topping.
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Enjoy:
- Garnish with a twist of lemon zest or a dollop of whipped cream if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing lemony flavor and creamy texture of these Upside Down Lemon Custard Cups!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 212.9 kcal
- Fat: 5.1g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7g
- Cholesterol: 81.3mg
- Sodium: 82.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 39.1g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 33.6g
- Protein: 3.9g
Recipe Notes:
- Butter and Custard Cups: Ensure to generously butter the custard cups to prevent sticking and to aid in the easy release of the custards after baking.
- Egg Whites: Be gentle when folding in the egg whites to maintain the custard’s airy texture.
- Water Bath: The water bath (bain-marie) technique is crucial for gentle, even baking and to prevent the custards from curdling.
Conclusion
With its vibrant lemon flavor and creamy texture, Upside Down Lemon Custard Cups are a delightful dessert option that can be prepared in less than an hour, making them perfect for both everyday treats and special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert or simply love the tangy sweetness of lemon, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with its beautiful presentation when served upside down on the plate.
