Crema Fritta with a Crunchy Twist

Ingredients

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 4 large egg yolks 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 25g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, and egg yolks 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 low heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Transfer the custard to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.
6. 6.
   Once the custard has cooled, shape it into small balls or any desired shape.
7. 7.
   Roll the custard balls in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
8. 8.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
9. 9.
   Carefully place the coated custard balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
10. 10.
    Remove the fritters from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
11. 11.
    Dust the fritters with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Breadcrumbs — For a more flavorful twist, you can use toasted breadcrumbs or add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the breadcrumbs before coating the custard balls.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the custard is completely cooled before shaping it into balls to prevent them from losing their shape during frying.
• To achieve a crispy coating, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the fritters.
• Serve the Crema Fritta immediately after frying to enjoy the contrast between the warm, crispy exterior and the creamy interior.

Serving advice

Serve the Crema Fritta as a delightful dessert on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra touch of elegance.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown Crema Fritta on a serving platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. Place a sprig of fresh mint or a small edible flower on top for an attractive presentation.