Latija(Heritage: Guam)
Latija is a traditional Guam dessert featuring sponge cake layered with a rich vanilla custard, sweetened with sugar and butter, perfect for celebrations and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the sponge cake into 1/3-inch slices and place on a platter.
- In a thick 1-quart saucepan, bring 1 1/3 cups water to a boil.
- Add the can of Carnation milk and sugar to the boiling water.
- Mix 1/3 cup water with cornstarch and vanilla, then gradually add this mixture to the milk mixture.
- Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture bubbles.
- Remove from heat and add the butter or oleo, stirring until melted.
- Beat the eggs well and add them to the pudding in 4 additions, stirring vigorously after each addition.
- Pour the custard over the sponge cake slices.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a creamier custard, ensure the eggs are at room temperature before adding them, which helps them incorporate better. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute or a natural sweetener. You can also use almond or coconut milk instead of Carnation milk for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Latija warm or chilled, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing Strawberry Banana Drink or as a sweet treat after a meal featuring Sauteed String Beans With Mushrooms. Consider garnishing with whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Latija(Heritage: Guam) contains roughly 483 calories, with 3g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% 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 a different type of cake instead of sponge cake?
Yes, you can substitute sponge cake with pound cake or angel food cake for a different texture. Keep in mind that the flavor may slightly change, but it will still work well with the custard.
What if I don't have cornstarch?
If you don't have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour as a thickening agent. Just make sure to cook it a bit longer to eliminate any raw flour flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free sponge cake and ensure that your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without compromising dietary restrictions.
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).