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Floating Islands with Vanilla Crème Anglaise

A delightful dessert featuring fluffy meringue islands served in rich vanilla crème Anglaise, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crème Anglaise
  • 1 unit vanilla bean (or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
  • 1/3 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg at room temperature
  • 1 tiny pinch salt
  • 2 tablespoons white sugar (divided)
For the Meringue Islands
  • 4 tablespoons white sugar divided
  • optional 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil (for sugar cages)
  • optional 1/4 cup white sugar (for sugar cages)
  • 6 pieces fresh raspberries for garnish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by splitting the vanilla pod in half. Scrape the seeds out and combine them with the cream, milk, and remaining pod pieces in a saucepan.
  2. Separate the egg, adding salt to the egg white and whisking until foamy. Gradually add in two tablespoons of sugar until stiff peaks form.
  3. Bring the cream mixture to a slight simmer, then reduce the heat. Form the meringue into ovals with two spoons and place them on top of the cream. Cover and let simmer for about 12 minutes.
Making the Crème Anglaise
  1. Mix the remaining sugar into your cream mixture. Temper the egg yolk by slowly whisking in the hot cream, then pour it back into the saucepan.
  2. Stir until the mixture thickens to create a creamy consistency.
Optional Sugar Cages
  1. Melt the optional sugar over medium heat, drizzle it over a ladle to form delicate shapes, and let cool.
Serving
  1. Divide the chilled Crème Anglaise among plates. Place a meringue island on top of each, cover with a sugar cage if made, and finish with fresh raspberries.

Notes

Ensure your bowl and whisk are clean and dry when whipping egg whites, as any fat can prevent peaks. Don’t rush the cooking of your Crème Anglaise for best results. You can substitute fresh raspberries with seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries.