Crema del Re alla Cannella (Cinnamon Cream of the King)

Ingredients

• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk 4 cups (946ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Grated dark chocolate, for garnish Grated dark chocolate, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 40g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. 4.
   Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and let the cream cool slightly before transferring it to individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl.
6. 6.
   Cover the cream with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
7. 7.
   Before serving, sprinkle grated dark chocolate over the top for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Milk — Use whole milk for a creamier texture.
• Cornstarch — Make sure to whisk the cornstarch with the other dry ingredients before adding the egg yolks to prevent lumps from forming.
• Egg yolks — Separate the yolks carefully to avoid any traces of egg whites, as they can interfere with the custard's smoothness.
• Cinnamon — Use freshly ground cinnamon for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent a skin from forming on the cream while it sets, make sure to press the plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the cream.
• For a more intense cinnamon flavor, you can infuse the milk with a cinnamon stick before heating it.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.

Serving advice

Serve Crema del Re alla Cannella chilled in individual dessert bowls or glasses. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of grated dark chocolate for an elegant touch. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine.

Presentation advice

For an exquisite presentation, consider serving the Crema del Re alla Cannella in elegant glass dessert bowls or martini glasses. Dust the top with a pinch of ground cinnamon and place a cinnamon stick as a decorative element on the side. This will elevate the visual appeal of the dessert and impress your guests.