Creamy Cinnamon Natillas

Ingredients

• 4 cups (946ml) whole milk 4 cups (946ml) whole milk
• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg, for garnish Ground nutmeg, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 26g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and cinnamon stick. Heat over medium-low heat until the milk starts to steam, but not boil. Remove from heat and let the cinnamon infuse for 15 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined and smooth.
3. 3.
   Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan with the infused milk, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. 4.
   Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-15 minutes.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
6. 6.
   Pour the natillas into individual serving dishes or a large serving bowl. Let them cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
7. 7.
   Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg over each natilla.
8. 8.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cinnamon stick — Make sure to use a fresh cinnamon stick for the best flavor. If you don't have a cinnamon stick, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, but the flavor may be slightly different.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent curdling, make sure to whisk the egg mixture constantly while pouring it into the hot milk.
• For a twist, you can add a splash of Spanish brandy or rum to the natillas while they are cooking for a boozy flavor.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the natillas through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
• Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or nutmeg to customize the flavor of your natillas.
• Serve the natillas with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of indulgence.

Serving advice

Serve the Creamy Cinnamon Natillas chilled in individual dessert bowls or ramekins. You can garnish each serving with a cinnamon stick for an elegant presentation. These natillas are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of buttery Spanish shortbread cookies or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation of Creamy Cinnamon Natillas, consider serving them in clear glass dessert bowls or martini glasses. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the natillas and place a cinnamon stick on the side for an attractive garnish. For a more rustic presentation, serve the natillas in small clay pots or ceramic dishes.