Floating Island Dessert Recipe | Recipe Hub 97

 Floating Island Dessert Recipe

Floating Island, or "Île Flottante" in French, is a delightful dessert consisting of a soft meringue floating on a pool of creamy custard, often topped with a caramel sauce. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients:

For the Meringue:

• 4 large eggs, separated
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Custard:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Custard:

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk until it's hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Do not let it boil.
5. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and let it cool. Refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make the Meringue:

1. In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until soft peaks form.
2. Gradually add the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Poach the Meringue:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle simmer.
2. Using two large spoons, shape the meringue into oval-shaped quenelles and carefully drop them into the simmering water.
3. Poach the meringues for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are firm and cooked through. Remove them from the water using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

4. Assemble the Dessert:

1. Pour the chilled custard into serving bowls or glasses.
2. Gently place the poached meringues on top of the custard.
3. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

5. Make the Caramel Sauce (Optional):

1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and let it cook until it turns a deep amber color. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
3. Remove the pan from heat and carefully add the heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
4. Stir in a pinch of salt and let the caramel sauce cool slightly before serving.

6. Serve:

1. Drizzle the caramel sauce over the floating islands just before serving.
2. Enjoy your delicious Floating Island dessert!

This classic French dessert is elegant, light, and absolutely delicious. It's sure to impress your guests at any special occasion!