Puerto Rican Custard
Creamy Puerto Rican custard with caramelized sugar, rich vanilla flavor, and smooth texture, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a sweet, indulgent treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, over low heat, boil granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon water, stirring constantly, until the sugar melts and turns into a rich golden brown (approximately 15 minutes).
- Pour caramel into an 11 x 7 x 1 1/2-inch mold or glass dish.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the mold.
- Place the mold in a larger baking dish, and fill the outer dish with hot water halfway up the sides of the mold to create a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until the custard is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven, let cool, then refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother custard, ensure that the mixture is well blended. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute some evaporated milk with a lower-fat milk. When making the caramel, watch it closely to prevent burning; a rich golden brown color is ideal. If you find the custard too sweet, consider reducing the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Puerto Rican Custard chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside a slice of Christmas Damper to enhance the holiday spirit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm individual servings in the microwave at low power, checking frequently to avoid overheating, or serve chilled for a refreshing dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puerto Rican Custard contains roughly 667 calories, with 9g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 whole milk instead of evaporated milk?
While whole milk can be used, it may alter the texture and creaminess of the custard. Evaporated milk provides a richer flavor and helps achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a lighter version, consider using a mix of whole milk and evaporated milk.
How do I know when the custard is set?
The custard is set when it has a slight jiggle in the center, and a knife inserted comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so check it a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this custard ahead of time?
Yes, this custard can be made a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely, then refrigerate until ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
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).