🇲🇽 Mexico · Dessert

Natillas Mexicanas

45 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 280 kcal
Nicely balanced
🍽 6 servings
Feeds a crowd

By eatmundo · August 3, 2026

Natillas Mexicanas🇲🇽 MX

A 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

How 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.

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