Orange crema catalana

Orange Crema Catalana is a creamy twist on the classic Catalan dessert, infused with zesty orange flavor. It's a simple yet impressive treat, featuring a custard base thickened with corn flour and sour cream.

27 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 370 min

Ingredients:

2 cups light sour cream
2 tbsp orange zest
2 tbsp corn flour
4 yolks

Orange Crema Catalana is a delightful twist on the classic Catalan dessert, blending the traditional creamy texture with the vibrant and refreshing flavor of oranges. This dessert is perfect for those who love a combination of citrus and creamy textures, making it an impressive yet simple treat to prepare for any occasion.

Instructions:

1. Mix Sour Cream and Corn Flour:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the light sour cream and corn flour. Whisk together until the corn flour is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

2. Add Orange Zest:
- Grate the zest of fresh oranges using a fine grater until you have 2 tablespoons (30g) of zest. Add the orange zest to the sour cream and corn flour mixture, stirring well to distribute the zest evenly.

3. Prepare the Custard Base:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom. Heat the mixture until it starts to simmer and thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Do not let it boil.

4. Temper the Egg Yolks:
- In a separate mixing bowl, lightly whisk the 4 egg yolks. Gradually add a ladleful of the hot sour cream mixture to the yolks while whisking constantly. This process is called tempering and prevents the yolks from curdling.

5. Combine and Cook Further:
- Slowly pour the tempered yolk mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the sour cream mixture, stirring continuously. Keep cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency, about 3-5 more minutes.

6. Strain the Custard (Optional):
- If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps or zest pieces.

7. Chill the Crema Catalana:
- Pour the finished custard into ramekins or small serving dishes. Cover each dish with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on the surface. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set and chilled.

8. Serving:
- Once set, the Orange Crema Catalana is ready to serve. For a traditional touch, you can sprinkle a thin layer of sugar on top and caramelize it using a kitchen torch until golden and crispy, but this step is optional.

9. Enjoy:
- Enjoy your delightful Orange Crema Catalana as a refreshing and creamy dessert, perfect for any occasion!

By following these steps and tips, you can create a delicious and elegant Orange Crema Catalana that will impress your guests and treat your taste buds to a delightful blend of citrus and cream. This dessert is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to enjoy the rich flavors of a classic Catalan treat with a refreshing twist.

Orange crema catalana FAQ:

What is the baking time for Orange Crema Catalana?

There is no baking time for Orange Crema Catalana, as it is prepared on the stovetop and then chilled in the refrigerator. Allow at least 2 hours for it to chill and set properly.

How do I know when the custard is thick enough?

The custard is ready when it thickens to a custard-like consistency, typically after cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes after combining the tempered yolks. It should coat the back of a spoon without easily pouring off.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange zest?

Yes, you can substitute orange zest with lemon or lime zest for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that the amount of zest used may vary slightly based on the citrus fruit chosen.

How should I store leftover Orange Crema Catalana?

Store any leftover Orange Crema Catalana in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

What should I do if the custard curdles while cooking?

If the custard curdles, it may be due to overheating. Remove it from heat immediately and try whisking it vigorously. If it remains lumpy, straining it through a fine mesh sieve can help restore a smoother consistency.

Tips:

- Ensure that the light sour cream is at room temperature before starting to avoid lumps in the mixture.

- Use freshly grated orange zest for the best flavor and aroma.

- When heating the mixture, do so on medium-low heat to prevent the eggs from curdling and to achieve a smooth consistency.

- Strain the mixture before chilling to remove any lumps and achieve a velvety texture.

- For an added layer of flavor, consider caramelizing sugar on top of the crema catalana just before serving.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 160kcal
Protein 4.83g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 0.22g
Sugar 0.28g
Fat 11g

Orange crema catalana