segunda-feira, 30 de novembro de 2020


How to Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online

Posted: 30 Nov 2020 12:00 AM PST

While shoe shopping is best done in person, you can often save time and money by looking for new footwear online. Since you can't physically touch or examine a shoe from a digital store listing, examine your own feet to get an idea of how long, wide, and arched they are. When you have a better idea of your foot's physical size and shape, you can select a shoe size that will provide a more comfortable fit for you!

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Checking Your Foot Shape and Size

  1. Set a piece of paper on a flat surface. Take a sheet of printer paper and place it on the floor, or another flat area. Check that your foot can fit within the parameters of the paper—if not, select a larger sheet. Arrange the sheet in a safe, indoor area, where you won't be at any risk of slipping.[1]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 1.jpg
    • To provide a more sturdy measuring surface, consider laying your printer paper flush against the wall.[2]
  2. Center your foot in the middle of the paper. Remove any socks, tights, or stockings, then place your foot on top of the paper. Check that your foot isn't trailing off the page, and that there's enough room to trace around the perimeter.[3]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 2.jpg
  3. Trace around your foot with a pencil to create an accurate sketch. Try to keep your sketch as close to the edge of your foot as possible, so the drawing can be accurate. If you find it difficult to trace around your entire foot at once, try working in sections.[4]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 3.jpg
    • Consider asking a friend or family member to help you with this, as they might be able to get a more accurate sketch.
    • Depending on your foot, your tallest toe might be your big toe, or it might be the toe right next to your big toe! Double-check your sketch to ensure that it's correct before you continue.
  4. Repeat this process to measure your opposite foot. Set a new piece of paper down on a flat surface, then place your foot in the center of the sheet. Once again, use a pencil to trace around the perimeter, keeping the sketch along the edge of your foot. When you've finished tracing, set the piece of paper aside along with your original sketch.
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 4.jpg
    • Taking 2 measurements helps you to see if your foot sizes are even or disproportionate.
  5. Measure the length of your sketches with a ruler. Center a ruler or measuring tape along the heel portion of the drawing, making sure the measuring tool is going through the center of the sketch. Measure to the top of your tallest toe, then check to see what the ruler or measuring tape says. Repeat this process with both sketches to get an accurate idea of your shoe size.[5]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 5.jpg
    • It may help to jot down the exact measurements on a separate piece of paper.
  6. Determine your shoe size by comparing the measurement to an official list. Search online to find an accurate shoe size chart for your country or region. Find your foot measurements on the chart to see which size grouping you fit into. If your feet are 2 different sizes, be sure to compare both measurements against the chart.[6]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 6 Version 2.jpg
  7. Check the diameter of the sketch to see if you have wide or narrow feet. Take a ruler or measuring tape and lay it horizontally across the sketch of your foot. Align the measuring tool so it spans across the 2 widest parts of your feet, which will give you a more accurate result. Jot down the exact measurement, then search online to compare your results to a width sizing chart.[7]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 7.jpg
    • The widest parts of your feet are directly beneath your big toe and piggy toe.
    • The width of your feet is proportionate to the overall size. For instance, if your feet are a size 7 and wide, you could classify them as wide. However, if your feet are a size 10, then your feet would be considered to have an average width.
    • Check the charts on this site to see how wide or narrow your feet are: http://www.sizecharter.com/clothing-fit-and-measurement/understanding-shoe-sizing.
  8. Dip your foot in water to see if you have high or low arches. Place your foot in a bucket of cool water, then step on a piece of cardboard. Remove your foot from the sheet, then examine the imprint that's leftover. If you can see most of your foot, you likely have low arches. If half of your foot isn't visible in the imprint, you have high arches.[8]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 8.jpg
    • If you can see about ⅔ of your foot in the imprint, you likely have normal arches.

[Edit]Evaluating the Shoe Listing

  1. Compare your shoe size to the provided chart on the store's site.[9] Before looking for a specific type of shoe, search the website for a sizing chart that pertains to the brand. While most charts will be similar, note that some brands might offer different sizing recommendations. Find your own shoe measurements on the chart to get an idea of what shoe size would fit you best.[10]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 9.jpg
    • Many websites allow you to narrow your search parameters by shoe size. See if this option is available to you as you browse!
  2. Read the description to get an idea of the shoe's materials.[11] Note that synthetic shoes tend to include materials like spandex, acrylic, polyester, nylon, or acetate, which indicates that the shoe is more flexible and breathable. Be cautious when shopping for shoes made out of heavier materials like leather, which may feel rigid around your feet with long-term use.[12]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 10.jpg
  3. Search the listing for special sizing recommendations. Check the bottom of the listing for any manufacturer notes or guidelines that may be important to consider. Depending on the shoe model or brand, some footwear may run consistently small, narrow, or large. With this in mind, try to factor in this advice whenever you purchase a pair of shoes online.[13]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 11.jpg
    • For instance, if a listing for hiking boots states that the shoes tend to run large, purchase a pair that's a half or whole size smaller than your usual size.
  4. Check the product listing for customer reviews.[14] Aside from the company's personal recommendations, see if other customers enjoyed wearing the shoes that they purchased. If previous customers weren't satisfied with their purchases, look for keywords in the review that indicate why. You might be able to gain some valuable insights into how well the shoe fits, and if you need to buy it in a larger or smaller size.[15]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 12.jpg
  5. Buy pointed shoes in a larger size so your feet don't feel cramped. If you're looking for pointed footwear, like flats, dress shoes or heels, check the size listing to see what your options are. While it may seem practical to purchase shoes in your exact size, you may be setting yourself up for cramping and pinching. Instead, purchase the shoes in a ½ or whole size larger.[16]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 13.jpg
    • For instance, if you're looking to buy a pair of pointed heels but have size 6 feet, opt for a size 6½ or 7 shoe instead.
  6. Order seasonal shoes in a larger size to accommodate for the weather. Use caution when purchasing boots, sandals, or other footwear used during especially warm or cold temperatures. Note that some feet tend to swell in hotter weather, which can make your normal shoe size seem tight and uncomfortable. In cold weather, tight shoes tend to make your feet feel colder. While keeping this in mind, order your seasonal footwear in a ½ or whole size larger than you usually would buy.[17]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 14.jpg
    • For instance, if you're a size 10, purchase a pair of winter boots in a size 10½ or 11.
  7. Go with the larger size if your feet are 2 different sizes. Unfortunately, the vast majority of online shops don't give you an option to buy 2 differently sized shoes as a pair. If your feet are uneven, use the measurement of your longer foot when investing in a new set of shoes online.[18]
    Choose Shoe Size when Shopping Online Step 15.jpg
    • For example, if your left foot is a size 8.5 and your right foot is a size 9, purchase shoes that are a size 9.


[Edit]Tips

  • If you're buying heels or sneakers, size up a half size, since your feet may swell a bit during the day.[19]
  • Check the store's site to see if they have a fair return policy. If you can't return the shoes after trying them on, you may want to take your business elsewhere.[20]


[Edit]Things You'll Need

  • Paper
  • Pencil
  • Ruler or measuring tape
  • Water
  • Cardboard sheet

[Edit]References

How to Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army

Posted: 29 Nov 2020 04:00 PM PST

Serving in the Army can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice, especially if you pick a specialized task like becoming a helicopter pilot. Getting the technical skills to fly a helicopter takes some time and a lot of hard work. Fortunately for you, the Army has a program called "from street to seat," which can get you to flight school and flying helicopters without any prior military service. Once you meet the enlistment requirements, you'll have to complete about 2 years of training and practice programs to get all the required qualifications. After this, you'll officially be an Army helicopter pilot.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Meeting the Enlistment Requirements

  1. Complete high school and get your diploma. The Army has a minimum education requirement and you'll need a high school diploma. If you're still in school, then make sure you finish and graduate to meet this requirement, especially if you want to attend flight school.[1]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 1.jpg
    • It helps to do well in high school as well, especially in your math and science courses. Flight school involves a lot of classroom instruction, and a good understanding of math, physics, and other science fields will be a big help.
    • You could still join the Army with a GED instead of a high school diploma, but it does hurt your chances of acceptance and you might not be eligible for Warrant Officer training. If possible, it's best to complete high school and get your diploma.[2]
  2. Enlist between the ages of 18 and 33. In general, the Army's age requirement is that you have to be at least 18 and no older than 33 to enlist. As long as you're between these ages, then you can enlist and start the process to reach flight training.[3]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 2.jpg
    • If you're 33 or 34, you may be able to get a waiver. Ask your superior officer or recruiter about your options in this case.
    • You can still join the Army as old as 35, but you probably won't be accepted for flight school.[4]
  3. Meet the Army's physical requirements to qualify. The physical requirements for pilots are the same as the Army's overall requirements. You have to be within a specific weight and height range to qualify. You'll also need at least 20/50 vision in each eye, and wear lenses to correct your vision to 20/20.[5]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 3.jpg
    • In general, men need to be between and . Women need to be between and .[6]
    • If you can't reach these physical requirements but still want to serve your country, the Army does have many other civilian jobs that you could apply for. Talk to a recruiter to see what your options are.[7]
  4. Apply for American citizenship before you enlist if you aren't a citizen. In general, the Army requires recruits to be US citizens before joining. However, you could still enlist if you haven't yet obtained citizenship. Just make sure you meet the citizenship requirements and submit the application before joining. That way, you can begin your training during the application processing.[8]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    • You do still need a Green Card and permanent resident status to qualify for the Army, so make sure you complete all of this before applying.
  5. Score at least 110 on the ASVAB exam to qualify for officer training. The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, or ASVAB, is an exam that all new Army recruits have to take. The exam measures your critical reasoning, science, math, electronics, and grammar knowledge. While recruits only need a score of 31 to pass, you'll need a top score to qualify for Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS). Study hard and get at least a 110 to meet the requirement for officer and flight school.[9]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 5.jpg

[Edit]Getting to Flight School

  1. Apply to Warrant Officer Candidate School. All Army pilots have to complete Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS) before attending flight school to become pilots. As long as you scored at least a 110 on the ASVAB, you qualify for WOCS and can submit your application when you enlist.[10]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 6.jpg
    • Your recruiter can walk you through this process and help you with your application.
    • If you don't apply for WOCS right when you enlist, you need to have at least 12 months left on your enlistment contract to qualify for WOCS. If you have less than this, you'll have to re-enlist first.
  2. Complete 9 weeks of basic training. All Army recruits have to complete and pass basic combat training before moving on, and you will too.[11] Basic training is a 9-week program at one of several Army forts throughout the country. You'll learn critical skills like combat, teamwork, Army procedures, and physical conditioning to prepare you for your Army career. At the end, you'll have to pass a few physical and mental tests to qualify for graduation. If you pass, you'll officially be a member of the Army.[12]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    • It's best to start preparing yourself for basic training by getting in good physical shape and learning as much as you can about the Army. This will make your time in basic training much easier.
    • Only about 15% of recruits fail basic training, so you have a good chance of passing as long as you prepare yourself.[13]
  3. Review the Army's drills and guidelines before starting officer school. After basic training, your next step is Warrant Officer Candidate School (WOCS). This is a physically and mentally intensive program, so make sure you're as prepared as possible before starting. The Army recommends reviewing all of its training, drill, ceremony, and navigation manuals before attending WOCS. This way, you'll be prepared for the knowledge portions of officer school.[14]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 8.jpg
    • If there is any gap time between basic training and starting WOCS, make sure you workout regularly to stay in top physical shape. You'll have to pass more physical tests in officer school and you'll have trouble if you let yourself get out of shape.[15]
  4. Report to Fort Rucker, Alabama, for WOCS. All pilot candidates have to pass Warrant Officer Candidate School after basic training, which is held at Fort Rucker, AL. This 6-week program trains aspiring pilots and other technical officers for their role in the Army.[16]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 9.jpg
    • You'll receive a packet outlining the process and your instructions for reporting to WOCS when you're accepted. If you have any questions, ask your recruiter.
    • Be sure to review the Army's checklist for everything you need to bring with you to WOCS.
    • You can only enter WOCS without prior Army service if you plan on becoming a pilot. Other service members must be at least a Staff Sergeant/E-6 to qualify.
  5. Pass the WOCS program to become a Warrant Officer. The 6 weeks at Warrant Officer school train you to become a technical specialist in the Army. You'll receive a combination of specialized classroom instruction along with further physical training. After completion of this course, you'll be a Warrant Officer and can attend flight school.[17]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 10 Version 2.jpg
    • Recruits at WOCS attend different programs based on their intended career. You'll be placed in a program for aspiring pilots looking to attend flight school.
    • Navigation is an important part of WOCS, especially for aspiring pilots. Review the Army manual on field navigation so you're well-prepared for this training.
  6. Earn a qualifying score on the SIFT exam for flight school. The SIFT exam, Selection Instrument for Flight Training, is your final step before flight school. This exam measures all of the technical flight knowledge you gained during WOCS.[18] It's scored from 20-80, and you need at least a 40 to pass and qualify for flight school. Study hard and ace this exam to continue with your pilot training.[19]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 11.jpg
    • The Army provides a study guide for the SIFT, so be sure to work with that guide to do as well as possible.
    • In general, you can only take the SIFT exam twice. If you pass on your first try, then you don't have to take it again. If you fail twice, then you can't take it again.
  7. Apply to Warrant Officer Flight Training to continue on your path. Your final step to becoming an Army pilot is WOFT, Warrant Officer Flight Training. This is a long program and takes about a year of training. As long as you get a passing score on your SIFT, you can send in your application and start the last phase of your training.[20]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 12.jpg
    • WOFT is also at Fort Rucker.

[Edit]Completing Flight Training

  1. Pass the classroom portion of flight instruction. All WOFT candidates start with classroom training. In this program, you'll learn about flight physics, systems, emergency procedures, and navigation. This is all crucial if you want to be a successful pilot, so pay close attention and pass your classroom instruction sections.[21]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 13.jpg
    • Since you've already gone through a lot of classroom instruction in WOCS, you should be ready for this portion of your training. Pay attention and draw on all the classroom skills you've already gained to get to this point.
  2. Rack up 7.5 hours of practice time on a helicopter flight simulator. Once your classroom training is over, you'll start flight training on a simulator. You'll learn basic takeoff and landing skills, flight maneuvers, and controls. After 7.5 hours on a simulator, you can move on to practicing in a real helicopter.[22]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 14.jpg
  3. Choose 1 of 4 helicopters that you want to specialize with. The Army uses 4 main helicopters, and you'll have to pick one to specialize in. They're all used for different tasks, so be sure to consider what type of job you want to do before picking a helicopter.[23]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 15 Version 2.jpg
    • The OH-58 Kiowa is a small reconnaissance aircraft used for scouting.
    • The UH-60 Blackhawk is a transport helicopter used for evacuations and search-and-rescue missions.
    • The AH-64 Apache is an attack helicopter that's used in combat missions.
    • The CH-47 Chinook is a large transport helicopter used to move supplies.
  4. Practice on your chosen helicopter for 70 to 150 hours. Once you choose your helicopter and mission type, then you'll spend a lot of time practicing in that helicopter to become an expert. Depending on your helicopter, you'll need between 70 and 150 hours of flight time to pass WOFT. After that, you're qualified for graduation.[24]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 16.jpg
    • You'll not only practice flying the helicopter itself, but also using all the equipment you might use in flight like night vision goggles.
    • There will be different procedures and maneuvers for different helicopters. If you fly an Apache, you'll probably practice selecting and strafing targets, while with a Blackhawk you'll probably practice landing in a hostile zone to evacuate injured soldiers.
  5. Graduate from WOFT to become a helicopter pilot. When you spend the required amount of time in flight training, you then qualify to earn your wings. After a graduation ceremony, you'll officially be a Warrant Officer pilot and can start your exciting new career as an Army helicopter pilot.[25]
    Become a Helicopter Pilot in the Army Step 17.jpg

[Edit]Tips

  • If you want to become a helicopter pilot without making the Army your whole career, the Army National Guard has similar requirements for pilot training. You can join the National Guard if you prefer to have a career separate from the Army.[26]
  • If you have any questions about the recruitment or training process, you can ask your Army recruiter for more explanation.
  • In general, the Army also prefers candidates with no criminal or disciplinary record, so be sure to stay out of trouble.

[Edit]References

  1. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer/flight-warrant-officers.html
  2. https://www.todaysmilitary.com/joining-eligibility/eligibility-requirements
  3. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer/flight-warrant-officers.html
  4. https://militarybenefits.info/military-enlistment-age-limits/
  5. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  6. https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/army-weight-rules.html
  7. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/army-civilian-careers.html
  8. https://www.todaysmilitary.com/joining-eligibility/eligibility-requirements
  9. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer.html
  10. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer.html
  11. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  12. https://www.goarmy.com/soldier-life/becoming-a-soldier/basic-combat-training.html
  13. https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces/the-top-3-reasons-you-could-fail-basic-training.html
  14. https://usacac.army.mil/sites/default/files/documents/cace/wocc/WOCS_FAQs_20190801.pdf
  15. https://usacac.army.mil/sites/default/files/documents/cace/wocc/WOCS_FAQs_20190801.pdf
  16. https://usacac.army.mil/sites/default/files/documents/cace/wocc/WOCS_FAQs_20190801.pdf
  17. https://usacac.army.mil/sites/default/files/documents/cace/wocc/WOCS_FAQs_20190801.pdf
  18. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer/flight-warrant-officers.html
  19. https://militaryflighttests.com/sift-scores/
  20. https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/current-and-prior-service/advance-your-career/warrant-officer/flight-warrant-officers.html
  21. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  22. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  23. https://www.nationalguard.com/helicopter-pilot
  24. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  25. https://www.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/Job_Description_Army_Pilot_B97B10C372F31.pdf
  26. https://www.nationalguard.com/152F-AH-64-Attack-Pilot

How to Decorate Creme Brulee

Posted: 29 Nov 2020 08:00 AM PST

Deliciously rich and creamy creme brulee is a decadent and beautiful dessert all on its own, but adding a few decorative elements can elevate it even further. Since you still want that hard sugar crust to be visible so you can crack your spoon into it, use a light hand when it comes to decorations. Some well-placed berries, a bit of shaved chocolate, or a lightweight nest made of spun sugar will look elegant and add a nice supplemental flavor to the dessert.

[Edit]Ingredients

[Edit]Spun Sugar Nest

  • 2 1/2 cups (500 grams) of granulated sugar
  • of corn syrup
  • of water

Makes 4 nests

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Caramelized Sugar Top

  1. Sprinkle the top of the baked and cooled custard with granulated sugar. Spread the sugar over the top as evenly as possible to create a thin, solid crust. Wait to do this until right before you're ready to serve dessert. If you do it more than 30 minutes ahead of time, there's a chance the crust will soften and lose its crunch.[1]

    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 1.jpg
    • Some chefs prefer turbinado sugar because it melts easily, but granulated sugar works perfectly fine.[2]
  2. Move a kitchen blowtorch back and forth over the sugar until it caramelizes. Don't hold the blowtorch still in one place—instead, keep it moving and go over the whole creme brulee multiple times until all of the sugar is brown and hard. Keep the flame close to the sugar as you work.[3]

    • If you don't have a blowtorch, don't despair! Use your oven's broiler instead. Put a wire rack at the very top of your oven and turn the broiler to high. Once it's hot, put the creme brulee on the rack and bake it until the sugar caramelizes. Keep a close eye on it—depending on your oven, it may only take a few minutes.[4]
  3. Let the brulee rest for 3-5 minutes so the sugar crust hardens.[5] Just a few minutes on the counter should do it, though you could even pop the creme brulee into the fridge for up to 30 minutes. This rest time is essential to getting that great crack when you break through the surface to get to the custard.[6]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 3.jpg
    • Once the caramelized crust hardens, you're ready to add any other decorations you want to use.

[Edit]Fruits and Fun Toppings

  1. Top your dessert with beautiful berries for a tart, aesthetically-pleasing effect. Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries—feel free to mix and match different varieties for your creme brulee decorations. Whichever berries you decide to use, make sure to leave part of the brulee's surface visible, so it's easy to crack into. Here are some fun ways you can arrange your berries:[7]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 4.jpg
    • Make concentric circles or a spiral going out from the center for a more traditional vibe.
    • Spread berries over half of the creme brulee for a modern look.
    • Cluster berries in the center for a minimalistic aesthetic.
    • For additional flavor and sweetness, toss your fresh berries with brown sugar and raspberry liqueur before using them to decorate your creme brulee.[8]
  2. Give your creme brulee a tropical flavor with diced mango. Pile a few pieces of mango in the center of the creme brulee. Or, thinly slice the mango and layer the pieces around the edge of the dessert for a pretty presentation.[9]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 5.jpg
    • Pineapple and papaya are other tropical fruits that would work well.
  3. Sprinkle crushed pistachios over the top to add a crunchy texture. You can use raw or roasted pistachios—just make sure to remove the shell if that hasn't already been done! Rough chop them with a chef's knife and add a small handful to each creme brulee. Along with adding crunch, the green color adds a nice visual to your dessert.[10]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 6.jpg
    • Be careful to check for nut allergies if you're making dessert for guests or a party! Make a few creme brulees sans nuts, just in case.
  4. Add delicate chocolate shavings for a slightly bitter note. The bitterness of chocolate (especially dark chocolate) plays well with the creaminess and richness of creme brulee. Use a vegetable peeler or cheese grater to shave pieces off of a chunk of chocolate. Sprinkle the shavings over the creme brulee, or pile a few pieces in the center or off to one side.[11]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 7.jpg
    • Make your presentation a little more artistic with chocolate curls. Use a vegetable peeler to shave long, wide pieces of chocolate off of a bigger chunk—the deeper you shave, the bigger the curl![12]
  5. Balance a few ladyfingers along the edge of the dish as an added treat. Creme brulee and ladyfingers are delicious desserts when eaten on their own. Put them together, and the ladyfingers transform into a dunk-able accompaniment to the rich creme brulee.[13]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 8.jpg
    • Add a little mint garnish for a pop of color and dash of fresh flavor.
  6. Add an elegant touch to your creme brulee with edible flowers. This is a simple decoration that adds a lot of color and sophistication to your dessert. Place a few flowers in the center of the creme brulee, or arrange them off to one side.[14]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 9.jpg
    • Always double-check that the flowers you're using are safe to eat. On some blooms, the petals are safe but the stems aren't, or vice versa.[15]
    • Place the flowers in a strainer, rinse them with clean water, and let them dry on a paper towel before using them.[16]
    • Some commonly used edible flowers are begonias, carnations, daylilies, hibiscus, impatiens, lilac, pansies, and violets.[17]
  7. Use fondant to shape whimsical creatures to transform your creme brulee. Imagine—the flat pane of your creme brulee is a stage on which you can create any scene or landscape that you like. This is a great way to make themed desserts for a party! Make crabs for a sea theme, owls for a forest theme, or hearts for a romance theme.[18]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 10.jpg
    • If you want something a little simpler, make flowers out of fondant or punch out small circles to make polka dots over the surface of the creme brulee.

[Edit]Spun Sugar Nest

  1. Create a sugar-spinning station with wooden dowels on your countertop. Take 3-4 wooden dowels (wooden spoons work just fine, too), and lay them on the counter apart. Position them so their ends extend out past the edge of the counter. Put something heavy on top of the ends still on the counter, or use tape to hold them in place. You'll use this little station to catch the sugar as you "spin" it later on![19]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 11.jpg
    • Lay a dishtowel near the station, too, so you have somewhere to set the pot once you're ready to start spinning.
    • Once the sugar is ready, you won't have time to prep your dowel station. Get it ready beforehand so that the sugar-spinning process is as smooth as possible.
    • You may also want to lay a piece of foil or parchment paper on the ground beneath the dowels to protect the floor from the spun sugar, which is a pain to remove once it hardens.
  2. Prep an ice bath in a bowl that's large enough to fit a small saucepan. Test that the bowl is big enough by putting the pan you plan to use in it. It should nestle inside without going to low that water will spill into it. Fill the bowl 2/3 full with ice and cold water, and set the bowl next to your stovetop.[20]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 12.jpg
    • It won't matter if the ice starts to melt while you're preparing the sugar. The water will still be cold enough to do its job.
  3. Add the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water to a small saucepan. Use 2 1/2 cups (500 grams) of sugar, of corn syrup, and of water. Try to pour the sugar directly into the middle of the pot; pouring slowly gives you more control versus dumping the entire amount in at once.[21]

    • Be careful not to get sugar on the sides of the pot. If you do, use a wet pastry brush to wipe the sides down. If you don't wipe them off, those sugar grains will crystallize and ruin the spun sugar's consistency.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. As you go, continue wiping the sides of the saucepan down with a wet pastry brush to keep the sugar along the sides from crystallizing. Don't stir the contents of the pan, though! Just let the mixture heat up and keep a close eye on it.[22]

    • Even professional bakers mess up spun sugar sometimes! Don't worry if it takes a few attempts before you get it right.
  5. Let the temperature rise for 6-12 minutes until it hits . Get your candy thermometer in place and keep a close eye on it. The temperature can rise very quickly at certain stages, so you really can't risk turning away for a few minutes.[23]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 15.jpg
    • Some candy thermometers clip to the side of the pan. If yours doesn't, slide the end through a slotted spatula and balance the spatula over the pot to hold it in place. This should protect you from steam burns!
  6. Chill the pan in the ice bath for 45 seconds to bring the temperature down. As soon as the candy thermometer reads , transfer the pan to the ice bath. Make sure to use oven mitts so you don't burn your hands. Count to 45, then remove the pan and put it on a dishtowel near your dowel station.[24]

    • If the sugar keeps getting hotter, it'll harden and be impossible to work with. You need it to reach a high temp but then go no further, hence the ice bath.
  7. Cool the pan out of the ice bath for an additional 45 seconds. As the sugar cools, it'll thicken. Use a fork to test the consistency—you want it to be as thick as honey before you start spinning it.[25]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 17.jpg
    • As you go and the mixture does start to harden, reheat it occasionally, so it maintains that honey-like thickness. At this stage, pay more attention to the consistency than to the actual temperature.[26]
  8. Dip a fork in the sugar and whip it back and forth over the wooden dowels. You'll be super happy you already have your dowel station set up! As the sugar leaves the fork and hits the air, it'll harden slightly, creating nice, thin strands of spun sugar. Keep doing this over and over again until you have enough strands to make a nest for your creme brulee.[27]

    • The texture of the strands is malleable yet firm enough to hold a shape. It's a cool process and technique you can use to create sugar decorations for all kinds of desserts.
  9. Use your fingers to mold the strands of spun sugar into a small nest. Once the strands are cool enough to touch, push them up to release them from the dowels. Some might break, but that's okay. Gently bundle them into the shape of a nest. Make as many as you need for your creme brulees. Pop the finished nests onto a sheet tray lined with parchment paper.[28]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 19.jpg
    • Make tiny little nests or several big ones.
  10. Decorate your creme brulee with a spun sugar nest. Once the creme brulee is ready, gently place a sugar nest into the center. If you want, arrange a few fresh berries around the edge or inside the nest for a pop of color.[29]
    Decorate Creme Brulee Step 20.jpg
    • This decoration is eye-catching and elegant. The sugar melts in your mouth, adding some extra sweetness to the dessert.
    • This particular recipe makes enough for 4 moderately-sized sugar nests.

[Edit]Tips

  • Creme brulee needs time to bake and chill before you can temper the top layer of sugar to make the delicious crust. Use that time to prep your decorative element![30]

[Edit]Things You'll Need

[Edit]Spun Sugar Nest

  • Small saucepan
  • Pastry brush
  • Parchment paper
  • Aluminum foil
  • Candy thermometer
  • 3-4 wooden dowels
  • Oven mitts
  • Dishtowel
  • Sheet tray

[Edit]References

  1. https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2010/09/french-in-a-flash-classic-vanilla-bean-creme.html
  2. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-creme-brulee
  3. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-creme-brulee
  4. https://www.thekitchn.com/three-ways-to-create-a-sugar-crust-on-homemade-crme-brle-165988
  5. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/classic-creme-brulee
  6. https://www.thekitchn.com/three-ways-to-create-a-sugar-crust-on-homemade-crme-brle-165988
  7. https://www.deliciousmeetshealthy.com/creme-brulee-fresh-berries/
  8. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/creme-brulee-with-berries-108588
  9. https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2014/05/lemon-vanilla-creme-brulee-with-fresh-mango-t.html
  10. https://cravingsjournal.com/chocolate-creme-brulee/
  11. https://cravingsjournal.com/chocolate-creme-brulee/
  12. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-chocolate-curls-41249
  13. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/bitter-orange-creme-brulee-361549
  14. https://youtu.be/Aih59U6_b6o?t=224
  15. https://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm
  16. https://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm
  17. https://whatscookingamerica.net/EdibleFlowers/EdibleFlowersMain.htm
  18. https://youtu.be/IveatyEqMek?t=482
  19. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-spin-sugar-for-delightf-117310
  20. https://sweets.seriouseats.com/2011/08/technique-of-the-week-spun-sugar-slideshow.html
  21. https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/spun-sugar-recipe-2107466
  22. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-spin-sugar-for-delightf-117310
  23. https://sweets.seriouseats.com/2011/08/technique-of-the-week-spun-sugar-slideshow.html
  24. https://sweets.seriouseats.com/2011/08/technique-of-the-week-spun-sugar-slideshow.html
  25. https://sweets.seriouseats.com/2011/08/technique-of-the-week-spun-sugar-slideshow.html
  26. https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/frozen-cranberry-souffle-with-spun-sugar-cranberry-wreath-10938
  27. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-spin-sugar-for-delightf-117310
  28. https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2011/08/how-to-make-spun-sugar-recipe.html
  29. https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2011/08/how-to-make-spun-sugar-recipe.html
  30. https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-creme-brulee-at-home-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-139072

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