Dolly Favorite Dessert

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, delicate dessert featuring rich custard topped with fluffy egg whites and a hint of nutmeg, perfect for special occasions or a comforting treat.

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Ingredients

  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 2 heaping teaspoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 quart milk

Instructions

  1. Cream egg yolks with sugar and whip until smooth.
  2. Add flour and mix well.
  3. Scald milk and when hot enough, add the cream mixture.
  4. Stir constantly for 20 to 25 minutes until it thickens.
  5. Remove from heat and add vanilla.
  6. Boil some water.
  7. Whip egg whites until stiff and add to boiling water until hardened.
  8. Remove with a spatula and place on top of the cream mixture.
  9. Sprinkle with nutmeg.
  10. Chill before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using whole milk instead of skim. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the egg yolks with additional egg whites. Whipping the egg whites until stiff is crucial for the dessert's texture, so ensure your mixing bowl is clean and dry. If nutmeg isn’t to your taste, a sprinkle of cinnamon can be a lovely alternative.

Serving Suggestions

This dessert is best served chilled, making it a perfect finish for a summer meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Marie's Apple Cake for a sweet, comforting dinner. Consider garnishing with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added texture and flavor. A light herbal tea can complement the rich dessert nicely.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the dessert on the stovetop over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. If you prefer, you can also serve it cold straight from the fridge, as it can be enjoyed chilled.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Dolly Favorite Dessert contains roughly 1399 calories, with 19g protein, 211g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).

1399 kcal 70% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.2g 38% DV
Total Fat 44.4g 57% DV
Carbs 211g 77% DV
Fiber 13g 47% DV
Sugar 115.3g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 773mg 34% DV
Potassium 935.6mg 20% DV
Cholesterol 17.4mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 447.9mcg 50% DV
Vitamin C 51.5mg 57% DV
Vitamin D 4mcg 20% DV
Calcium 1078.1mg 83% DV
Iron 16mg 89% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a sugar substitute in this recipe?

Yes, you can use a sugar substitute, but be sure to check the conversion ratio as it varies by product. Some substitutes may alter the texture slightly, so consider using one that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol or stevia blends.

How can I make this dessert gluten-free?

To make this dessert gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the milk, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I add flavors other than vanilla?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other flavors like almond extract or a splash of orange zest for a citrus twist. Just be mindful of the quantity, as some extracts can be stronger than vanilla.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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