Description
Delight in the smooth, creamy texture and rich flavors of Natilla, a traditional custard dessert perfect for any celebration. This recipe combines infused milk, caramel-like sweetness from brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon and citrus zest to create an irresistible treat that sets beautifully in the fridge.
Ingredients
Scale
Milk Infusion
- 5 cups whole milk (can substitute with almond or coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 2 sticks cinnamon
- 1 peel lemon (or lime zest)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup cornstarch (whisked with milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- Optional raisins or chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Milk Infusion: In a large pot, heat 5 cups of whole milk with 2 cinnamon sticks and the lemon peel over medium heat until just before boiling, approximately 10 minutes. This infuses the milk with warm, fragrant flavors.
- Mix Cornstarch and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup of the infused milk with 1/3 cup cornstarch until smooth and lump-free to ensure a creamy custard texture.
- Beat Egg Yolks and Sugars: In another bowl, beat 4 egg yolks with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1/4 cup brown sugar until light and frothy, about 2 to 3 minutes, incorporating air for a smooth custard.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the egg-sugar blend into the cornstarch mixture, ensuring even incorporation.
- Remove Infusion Ingredients: Take out the cinnamon sticks and lemon peel from the warm milk, then add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the milk to enhance the flavor.
- Cook Custard: Slowly add the egg and cornstarch mixture to the warm milk on medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until the custard thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Strain Custard: Pour the thickened custard through a sieve into individual serving cups to remove any lumps and achieve a silky texture.
- Chill until Set: Allow the natilla to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set and chilled.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top of each custard cup for an aromatic finish. Optionally, add raisins or chocolate chips as a topping.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or coconut milk, keeping in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
- Ensure continuous stirring during cooking to prevent the custard from sticking or curdling.
- Remove cinnamon sticks and lemon zest before adding the egg mixture to avoid bitterness or texture issues.
- Straining the custard is crucial for a smooth, lump-free finish.
- Chilling time is important for the custard to set properly, don’t rush serving.
- Chocolate chips can be used instead of raisins for an alternative twist.
