Spanish Natillas
Indulge in the silky smoothness of **Spanish Natillas**, a traditional Spanish custard dessert that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like whole milk, egg yolks, and a hint of cinnamon and lemon peel, this classic treat boasts a luscious, creamy texture and a delicate aroma. The magic lies in infusing the milk with warm spices, then slowly thickening the custard to velvety perfection. Often topped with a dusting of ground cinnamon and a classic Maria cookie for a nostalgic touch, Natillas are best served chilled, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an authentic Spanish experience or a satisfying sweet treat, this easy-to-make recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Spain. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or simply indulging your love for custards!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups Whole milk
- 4 large Egg yolks
- 0.5 cups Granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 0.25 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
- 1 strip Lemon peel
- 8 pieces Optional biscuits (e.g., Maria cookies)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and the strip of lemon peel. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer but do not let it boil. Once it simmers, remove from heat and let it steep for about 10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
Gradually strain the infused milk into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Discard the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.
Pour the custard mixture back into the saucepan and place it over low to medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or a whisk, making sure to scrape the edges and bottom of the pan, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (approximately 5-7 minutes).
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the custard into serving bowls or ramekins. If desired, place a Maria cookie on top of each portion.
Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top of each natillas and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before refrigerating.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, aromatic Spanish dessert!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1473 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 55.8 g | 72% | |
| Saturated Fat | 27.0 g | 135% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 855 mg | 285% | |
| Sodium | 519 mg | 23% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 198.5 g | 72% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.3 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 160.8 g | ||
| Protein | 46.1 g | 92% | |
| Vitamin D | 12.6 mcg | 63% | |
| Calcium | 1357 mg | 104% | |
| Iron | 3.1 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 1606 mg | 34% | |
*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.
