Natillas
Creamy, comforting natillas with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a rich, smooth treat with warm spice notes. Suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place egg yolks, flour, and 1 cup of milk in a small mixing bowl. Stir to make a smooth paste.
- Set aside.
- Place the remaining milk, sugar, and salt in a medium-sized pan and scald at medium heat.
- Add the egg mixture to the scalded milk.
- Cook at medium heat until a soft custard consistency is achieved.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the beaten egg whites into the cooled custard.
- Chill and garnish with nutmeg and cinnamon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat. If you're short on time, you can substitute the flour with cornstarch for a quicker thickening process. Ensure to whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to prevent lumps. Adding a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the overall taste, making it reminiscent of desserts like Creme Brule.
Serving Suggestions
Serve natillas chilled in individual dessert cups, garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg and cinnamon on top. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of Cucumber Appetizer for a light touch. For a more indulgent experience, consider serving it with a slice of Swedish Christmas Ham during special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the natillas in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. Avoid overheating, as it may cause separation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Natillas contains roughly 1398 calories, with 21g protein, 248g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (54% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1309mg per serving (57% 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 make natillas in advance?
Yes, natillas can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Chilling them allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste. Just be sure to cover them properly to prevent any absorption of fridge odors.
What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?
You can use almond milk or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative. However, keep in mind that these substitutes may slightly alter the flavor and texture. For a creamier result, consider using a combination of coconut milk and regular milk.
How can I make natillas thicker?
To achieve a thicker custard, you can increase the amount of flour or cornstarch in the recipe. Be sure to whisk it well to avoid lumps. Alternatively, cook the mixture a bit longer while stirring constantly until the desired thickness is reached.
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).