Caramel Caramel Slices

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 200°C (4OO°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

   Tip: Use a thermometer for precise temperature control.

2. 2

   In a medium saucepan, combine caster sugar, brown sugar and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the sugar until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

   Tip: Take care not to overmix the sugar mixture.

3. 3

   Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the saucepan, stirring to combine. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.

   Tip: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it turns a deep amber colour, stirring occasionally.

4. 4

   Remove the saucepan from the heat and carefully pour it into a heatproof bowl. Whisk in the egg yolks until smooth.

   Tip: Be careful not to get any hot sugar on your skin.

5. 5

   Strain the caramel mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.

   Tip: This step is crucial in removing any impurities from the caramel.

6. 6

   Pour the caramel mixture into a lined baking tray and spread it evenly. Allow it to cool and set at room temperature.

   Tip: This step may take several hours, depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

7. 7

   To assemble the caramel slices, place a sheet of flaky pastry on a flat surface. Spread a layer of caramel over the pastry, leaving a 2cm border around the edges.

   Tip: Use a spatula to spread the caramel evenly and smoothly.

8. 8

   Top the caramel with a layer of caramelised banana slices and sprinkle with sea salt.

   Tip: This will enhance the sweetness and texture of the caramel slices.

9. 9

   Roll the pastry into a tight cylinder and slice into 8 equal pieces. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt.

   Tip: The caramel slices will be soft and gooey, so be sure to serve them immediately.

10. 10

    If you want to get fancy, drizzle the caramel slices with additional caramel and sprinkle with toasted nuts or shaved chocolate.

    Tip: This step is optional, but it will add an extra layer of flavour and texture to the caramel slices.