Chocolate lovers, rejoice! Natilla de Chocolate is a rich and creamy dessert that will satisfy your cravings for something sweet and indulgent. This traditional Spanish dessert is similar to pudding, but with a thicker texture and a unique blend of spices. It's easy to make and can be served warm or chilled, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
To make this delicious dessert, you'll need the following ingredients: - 4 cups whole milk - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup cornstarch - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. In a large saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and sugar over medium heat. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. 3. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. 4. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. 5. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is very thick. 6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. 7. Pour the mixture into a large bowl or individual serving dishes and let it cool to room temperature. 8. Cover the bowl or dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the natilla is chilled and set. 9. Serve the natilla de chocolate cold, garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired.
Nutrition
One serving of Natilla de Chocolate (1/2 cup) contains approximately: - Calories: 330 - Total Fat: 18g - Saturated Fat: 11g - Cholesterol: 65mg - Sodium: 170mg - Total Carbohydrates: 38g - Dietary Fiber: 2g - Sugars: 28g - Protein: 6g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start making the natilla de chocolate, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. You'll need whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cornstarch, unsweetened cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
Step 2: Whisk Together Milk, Cream, and Sugar
In a large saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar over medium heat. Make sure to whisk until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, cocoa powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Milk Mixture
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the milk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Cook the Mixture
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Reduce Heat and Continue Cooking
Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is very thick. This will ensure that the natilla has a pudding-like consistency.
Step 7: Add Vanilla Extract
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will give the natilla a delicious vanilla flavor.
Step 8: Chill the Natilla
Pour the mixture into a large bowl or individual serving dishes and let it cool to room temperature. Cover the bowl or dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the natilla is chilled and set.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the natilla de chocolate cold, garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if desired. Enjoy the rich and creamy texture and the delicious blend of spices!
Tips and Variations
- For a richer and creamier natilla, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of whole milk. - You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference. If you like your dessert less sweet, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. - You can also adjust the spices to your liking. If you're not a fan of cinnamon or nutmeg, you can leave them out or substitute them with other spices like cardamom or ginger. - To make the natilla more festive, you can sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top before serving. - You can also add other toppings like chopped nuts, fresh berries, or caramel sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Natilla de Chocolate is a delicious and indulgent dessert that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy texture, unique blend of spices, and decadent chocolate flavor, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow these simple instructions and tips to make your own natilla de chocolate at home, and enjoy the sweet taste of Spain!