Natillas (Mexican Custard)

Mexican custard-type dessert that is so light you can't eat just one. This recipe has been in my family for over 130 years. Most of these ingredients are probably already in your pantry and it can be whipped up and put in the refrigerator for tomorrow's dinner party.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Calories: 158 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• ¾ cup white sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 large eggs, separated
• 2 ¼ cups milk, divided
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, or to taste

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Dissolve 3/4 cup sugar and cornstarch in 1 cup of milk. Beat egg yolks. Add beaten egg yolks, 1 tablespoon nutmeg, and salt. This makes a thick paste.

Step 2

Put the rest of the milk in a heavy pan over low heat. Add the paste mixture and stir constantly. Cook until mixture comes to a boil and thickens or coats a spoon.

Step 3

Beat egg whites until stiff and then add 1 tablespoon sugar as you continue beating. Fold this mixture into hot custard.

Step 4

Pour into individual ramekin serving dishes (sometimes I use thick martini glasses if I want to get fancy).

Step 5

Chill for a minimum of 5 hours and sprinkle remaining nutmeg over chilled dessert for presentation.