What You Need to Know
Sucrose undergoes thermal decomposition (pyrolysis) to form caramelan (C24H36O18) and other polymers, creating an amorphous glass structure. Key stages include inversion, foaming, and browning reactions.
Provides structural elegance to desserts like flan, where the brittle sugar glass contrasts with creamy textures.
Key Parameters
Temperature
152°C
149°C - 154°C
Time
4 minutes
3 minutes - 6 minutes
Equipment
Heavy-bottomed copper saucepanDigital candy thermometer (±0.5°C accuracy)Silicon baking mat
Steps
- 1.
Flan crown (Catalonia): Creates a protective sugar dome that cracks dramatically when served
The Science
Primary Reaction
Caramelization