🇲🇽 Mexico · Dessert
Natillas Mexicanas
By eatmundo · August 3, 2026
🇲🇽 MXA classic Mexican custard, similar to pastry cream but enjoyed on its own as a silky, spiced dessert. It is famously smooth and rich with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Whisk 4 egg yolks and 100g of corn starch with 200ml of cold milk until smooth.
- 2
Heat 800ml of milk with 150g sugar and 1 vanilla pod in a medium saucepan until it begins to simmer.
- 3
Remove the vanilla pod from the milk carefully.
- 4
Gradually pour a little hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to temper the eggs.
- 5
Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the hot milk.
- 6
Cook over low heat, whisking constantly for 8 minutes until it becomes thick and velvety.
- 7
Stir in 1 tsp of cinnamon powder until evenly incorporated.
- 8
Pour into individual serving cups and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent lumps?+
Tempering the eggs by slowly adding hot milk is key to preventing them from scrambling.
Can I replace the vanilla pod?+
You can use 1 teaspoon of high-quality vanilla extract if pods are unavailable.
How do I know when it's ready?+
It is ready when it thickens significantly and coats the back of a spoon smoothly.
How long does it last in the fridge?+
It stays fresh and creamy in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if covered tightly.
🇲🇽 MXMundo Match
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