Italian Custard
Italian Custard is a delightful dessert featuring a tender batter topped with sweet fruit filling, perfect for sharing with family and friends or serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar and oil.
- Add 4 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in salt and vanilla.
- Sift flour and add 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Spread 3/4 of batter onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Cover with fruit pie filling.
- Dribble remaining batter over the pie filling.
- Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes or at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, consider substituting half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. For added flavor, you can use almond extract instead of vanilla. This Italian custard pairs beautifully with a light dessert like Seashell Pasta Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian custard squares warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They make a delightful dessert after a hearty meal like Ravioli And Meat Balls. Consider pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Italian custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold, which accentuates the fruity filling.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Custard contains roughly 962 calories, with 10g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 881mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 fresh fruit instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh fruit; just ensure they are well-drained to prevent the batter from becoming soggy. Chopped berries, apples, or peaches can be delightful alternatives. Adjust the sweetness of the batter if necessary, depending on the fruit used.
What can I do if my batter is too thick?
If your batter is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of milk to reach your desired consistency. Make sure to mix well to incorporate the milk fully. This will help ensure the batter spreads easily over the pie filling.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Italian custard gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that include xanthan gum for better structure. The baking process remains the same, but be mindful of any adjustments needed for the flour blend you choose.
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).