Natilla is a cherished Filipino dessert, traditionally served during Christmas and special celebrations. This silky, golden custard derives its rich texture from egg yolks and milk, thickened gently with cornstarch and sweetened with sugar. The defining flavor comes from a generous dusting of cinnamon, which adds warmth and aromatic depth to every spoonful. Unlike firm puddings, natilla has a luxurious, spoonable consistency that melts in the mouth. It pairs beautifully with the festive spirit of the season, offering a comforting end to hearty meals. While often served chilled, it can also be topped with caramel or a torched sugar crust for a sophisticated touch. This recipe captures the authentic, home-style taste of the Philippines, bringing a touch of tropical sweetness to your table.
Natilla (Sweet Custard
Description
Natilla is a cherished Filipino dessert, traditionally served during Christmas and special celebrations. This silky, golden custard derives its rich texture from egg yolks and milk, thickened gently with cornstarch and sweetened with sugar. The defining flavor comes from a generous dusting of cinnamon, which adds warmth and aromatic depth to every spoonful. Unlike firm puddings, natilla has a luxurious, spoonable consistency that melts in the mouth. It pairs beautifully with the festive spirit of the season, offering a comforting end to hearty meals. While often served chilled, it can also be topped with caramel or a torched sugar crust for a sophisticated touch. This recipe captures the authentic, home-style taste of the Philippines, bringing a touch of tropical sweetness to your table.Ingredients
Directions
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In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks with 1 cup of milk until smooth and well combined.
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In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 cup of milk to form a smooth slurry, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Add the remaining 2 cups of milk and the sugar to the cornstarch mixture, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
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Strain the egg yolk mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into the cornstarch and milk mixture, stirring constantly to combine.
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Pour the combined mixture into a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, for about 20 minutes or until the mixture thickens significantly and coats the back of the spoon.
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Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
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Transfer the natilla to a serving bowl or individual ramekins.
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Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chilled and set.
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Dust generously with cinnamon before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 691.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 37.1g58%
- Saturated Fat 11.0g56%
- Cholesterol 1443.2mg482%
- Sodium 140.7mg6%
- Total Carbohydrate 62.0g21%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 52.8g
- Protein 26.8g54%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
