Chef John's Crème Caramel

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Lightly spray 4 heatproof 6.5-oz. ramekins with vegetable spray.

Place ramekins in a casserole dish.

Place 1/2 cup sugar in a small, heavy, dry skillet over medium heat.

When sugar begins to melt around the edges, gently shake the pan continually, swirling sugar around, until all the sugar melts; don't use utensils to stir.

When sugar is completely melted and dark brown, remove the pan from heat.

Quickly pour equal amounts of caramel syrup into the 4 prepared ramekins.

Place 1 egg and 3 egg yolks in a bowl with a pinch of salt and 1/4 cup sugar.

Whisk until sugar is dissolved and mixture becomes frothy, about 1 minute.

Spoon the crème fraiche into the egg mixture; add the milk, vanilla, and Grand Marnier.

Whisk together until ingredients are completely mixed.

Ladle mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling them about 2/3 to 3/4 full.

Fill casserole with hot tap water to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.

Place casserole on middle rack of preheated oven.

Bake until just barely set, 45 to 50 minutes.

You can start checking for doneness at about 40 minutes.

Using tongs, remove the ramekins from the casserole to a cooling rack.

When just slightly warm, run a sharp paring knife around the edge of each custard.

To unmold, cover ramekin with a small plate, then invert.

Chill before serving.