我醜但我好味

A couple of months ago, I was lacking inspiration so posted a status update on Facebook that went something like this: "What to bake next? Leave me a request and I shall try to make it. If you're too far away to taste it, I will at least post up the picture for you to taste with your eyes".

Eventually, ONE friend replied (I thought more people would have taken up my challenge!) and asked for Cannelés. These little sweets come from the Bordeaux region of France and I read one chef call them "crème brulée in a bite" because they are supposed to be crunchy (crusty) on the outside and custardy on the inside.

My first try at them wasn't a success... as you can see from the picture. The crust is meant to be dark brown but mine was obviously overly dark! And the little bump on the top has me scratching my head in wonder. Probably because I used a mould for mini cannelés, I overcooked the cakes and the center was not creamy and was nowhere close to a custard texture. But even with all these missteps, the little cakes tasted unexpectedly good (and no burnt taste!), and I believe it is because of the vanilla pod I used for the batter.... the rum might have helped too!

Definitely will give these another try. One day!