Indulge in the sweet, creamy delight of Chamorro Latiya, a classic dessert from the island of Guam that combines layers of tender pound cake and silky custard, topped with a sprinkle of fragrant ground cinnamon. This easy-to-make treat is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, featuring rich flavors from evaporated milk, velvety egg yolk-based custard, and a hint of vanilla. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a short chill in the fridge, this no-fuss dessert is ideal for celebrations or as a make-ahead treat. Serve it chilled for a refreshing, traditional taste of Chamorro cuisine that will leave your guests craving more.
In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, water, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and flour until smooth.
Slowly add 1/4 cup of the hot milk mixture to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the hot milk mixture, whisking constantly to combine.
Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the custard thickens to a pudding-like consistency (this typically takes about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.
Slice the pound cake into even-sized rectangles and arrange them in a single layer in a large serving dish or tray.
While the custard is still warm, carefully pour or spoon it over the cake slices, ensuring that they are fully covered.
Smooth the surface of the custard with the back of a spoon or spatula, and generously sprinkle the top with ground cinnamon.
Let the dessert cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set and the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled and enjoy this traditional Chamorro treat!
Calories |
2960 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 119.6 g | 153% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.4 g | 317% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1087 mg | 362% | |
| Sodium | 1952 mg | 85% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 398.3 g | 145% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.5 g | 34% | |
| Total Sugars | 277.5 g | ||
| Protein | 61.2 g | 122% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.6 mcg | 43% | |
| Calcium | 1433 mg | 110% | |
| Iron | 11.3 mg | 63% | |
| Potassium | 1768 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.