Catalan Cream

(Creme Brulee's lighter Spanish cousin)

1 & 3/4 c. 1% milk
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 tsp. vanilla

6 medium egg yolks
2 TBS cornstarch
1 & 1/4 c. sugar
2 TBS orange juice

sugar

Combine milk, cinnamon & vanilla in heavy medium saucepan. Bring just to a boil over medium heat, stirring often. Reduce heat when mixture boils.

Meanwhile, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, sugar & orange juice together in small ceramic mixing bowl until the mixture is creamy.

Gradually pour yolk mixture into milk, whisking continuously. Cook over medium low heat until the mixture begins to thicken. Do not allow mixture to boil.

Immediately pour into 6 small (individual serving size) ramekins. Allow to cool & refrigerate for several hours.

To serve: Sprinkle 2 tsp granulated sugar evenly over each cream. Working with 1 custard at a time, hold kitchen torch so that flame is 2 inches above surface. Direct flame so that sugar melts and caramelizes evenly, about 2 minutes.