Spanish Natillas

Indulge in the silky smoothness of **Spanish Natillas**, a traditional Spanish custard dessert that’s as comforting as it is elegant. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients like whole milk, egg yolks, and a hint of cinnamon and lemon peel, this classic treat boasts a luscious, creamy texture and a delicate aroma. The magic lies in infusing the milk with warm spices, then slowly thickening the custard to velvety perfection. Often topped with a dusting of ground cinnamon and a classic Maria cookie for a nostalgic touch, Natillas are best served chilled, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an authentic Spanish experience or a satisfying sweet treat, this easy-to-make recipe will transport you straight to the heart of Spain. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or simply indulging your love for custards!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 cups Whole milk
• 4 large Egg yolks
• 0.5 cups Granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 Cinnamon stick
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground cinnamon
• 1 strip Lemon peel
• 8 pieces Optional biscuits (e.g., Maria cookies)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and the strip of lemon peel. Bring the milk to a gentle simmer but do not let it boil. Once it simmers, remove from heat and let it steep for about 10 minutes.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.

Step 3

Gradually strain the infused milk into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Discard the cinnamon stick and lemon peel.

Step 4

Pour the custard mixture back into the saucepan and place it over low to medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or a whisk, making sure to scrape the edges and bottom of the pan, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon (approximately 5-7 minutes).

Step 5

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 6

Pour the custard into serving bowls or ramekins. If desired, place a Maria cookie on top of each portion.

Step 7

Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top of each natillas and allow them to cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes before refrigerating.

Step 8

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve chilled and enjoy this creamy, aromatic Spanish dessert!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1213.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1473.1

Total Fat 55.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 27.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Cholesterol 855.1mg	0%
Sodium 518.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 198.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.3g	0%
Total Sugars 160.8g
Protein 46.1g	0%

Vitamin D 502.6IU	0%
Calcium 1356.6mg	0%
Iron 3.1mg	0%
Potassium 1606.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 33.9%

Protein: 12.5%

Carbs: 53.6%