Pudim de Leite, also known as Brazilian Flan or Caramel Custard, is a popular dessert in Brazil that is similar to the Spanish flan. It is a creamy and decadent dessert that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Here’s a recipe you can try at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (14 oz) evaporated milk
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat.
- Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture cook until it turns a golden brown color.
- Pour the caramel into an 8-inch (20cm) round cake pan or a flan mold, making sure to evenly coat the bottom and sides of the pan. Set aside.
- In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan.
- Place the cake pan in a larger baking dish or roasting pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the cake pan.
- Carefully place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick or knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Once the pudding has cooled, run a knife around the edges to loosen it from the pan. Invert the pan onto a serving plate, and the pudding should slide out with the caramel sauce on top.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or whipped cream, if desired.
This Pudim de Leite is a delicious and classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. It has a smooth and creamy texture and a sweet, caramel flavor that is sure to impress your guests. It’s also a great make-ahead dessert that can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.