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Desserts

Condensed Milk Pudding Recipe

Nathalia Sanches
By Nathalia Sanches

Pudding Recipe

Pudding is a classic dessert that has won the hearts of people around the world.

Its smooth texture and sweet flavor make it a true temptation for dessert lovers. In this article, we will explore the origin of this delicious dessert and present all the details to prepare a perfect pudding at home.

Additionally, we will share golden tips and variations so you can surprise your family and friends with this irresistible dessert.

Pudding Recipe – Step by Step

Let’s move on to the classic pudding recipe, which is easy to make and results in an incredibly tasty dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can of condensed milk (395g)
  • 1 can of milk (use the condensed milk can as a measure)
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup of sugar for caramelizing the mold

Preparation Method:

  1. Mold Caramelization: Start by caramelizing the mold. In a saucepan, add the sugar and heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar completely melts and reaches a golden amber color. Be careful not to burn it, as this can make the syrup bitter. Once the sugar has melted, pour it into the pudding mold, spreading it over the entire surface. Set aside.
  2. Preparation of the Pudding Mixture: Next, in a blender, add the condensed milk, milk, and eggs. Blend on medium speed for a few minutes until you obtain a homogeneous and creamy mixture. This step is essential to ensure the smooth and velvety texture.
  3. Assembly and Baking in a Water Bath: Pour the pudding mixture into the caramelized mold. Place the pudding mold inside a larger baking dish and add hot water to the dish, so that it reaches approximately half the height of the pudding mold. This method, known as a water bath, is fundamental for ensuring even cooking and preventing cracks on the pudding’s surface.
  4. Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 160°C (352°F.)and bake in a water bath for about 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pudding is firm on the edges but still slightly creamy in the center. A tip is to insert a toothpick in the center of the pudding; if it comes out clean or with just a few creamy traces, the pudding is ready.
  5. Cool and Unmold: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before unmolding. To unmold, run a knife around the edges of the pudding to loosen it from the mold. Place a serving plate over the mold and invert it, allowing the pudding to slide onto the plate. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving, so that it becomes well chilled and reaches the ideal consistency.
Pudding Recipe

How to Unmold – Without Breaking It

Unmolding the pudding can be one of the most challenging moments, but with some tips you can do it without breaking the dessert:

  • Make sure it is completely cold: Before attempting to unmold, it is essential that it is completely cold and firm. Leaving it in the refrigerator for a few hours helps ensure it is set.
  • Run a Knife Along the Edges: Use a thin knife and run it along the edges of the mold to release it. This will help prevent it from breaking when unmolding.
  • Slightly Heat the Mold: If it is very stuck, you can lightly heat the bottom of the mold on the stove for a few seconds. This will cause the caramel to melt a bit, making the unmolding process easier.
  • Invert onto a Serving Plate: Place a plate over the pudding mold and quickly invert it. Let it slide onto the plate and it’s ready!

Golden Tips

  • Choice of Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients makes all the difference in the final result. Use good quality condensed milk and fresh eggs. This ensures a smooth texture and a distinct flavor.
  • Proper Caramelization: Caramelizing the mold is a crucial step. Ensure that the sugar completely melts and acquires a golden amber color without burning. If the caramel becomes too dark, it may taste bitter.
  • Blend the Mixture Well: Using a blender or mixer to blend the condensed milk, milk, and eggs is essential to achieve a homogeneous consistency and smooth texture. Be careful not to over-blend to avoid forming air bubbles, which could compromise the texture.
  • Water Bath: The water bath is fundamental for even cooking and to prevent the pudding from drying out or cracking. An extra tip is to place a kitchen towel at the bottom of the baking dish where the water is placed; this helps prevent the pudding mold from moving during cooking.
  • Baking Time: The baking time may vary depending on the size of the mold and the oven’s power. It will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit soft when it comes out of the oven.

The History

It has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that its origins come from the Roman Empire, where it was prepared with a mixture of honey, milk, and eggs.

This delight was appreciated as an energy food and, over time, began to gain different variations depending on the regions where it was prepared.

During the Middle Ages, it became associated with religious festivities, especially during Lent.

However, since the use of dairy ingredients was prohibited during that period, it was adapted with ingredients such as bread, meat, dried fruits, and spices, resulting in a more solid and savory version.

Nevertheless, the real breakthrough happened in the 17th century, with the invention of condensed milk by Gail Borden. This innovation greatly facilitated the preparation, making the dessert more practical and accessible.

Thus, the pudding as we know it today, creamy and covered with a layer of caramel, became popular in various countries, achieving the status of a classic dessert in many cultures.

Recipe Variations

One of its great advantages is that it is an incredibly versatile dessert. In addition to the classic recipe, there are many variations you can try to bring new flavors and textures to this delight.

  • Chocolate: For the chocolate lovers, an excellent option is to add chocolate to the mixture. Simply add 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the pudding batter and blend it with the other ingredients. The result is an incredibly creamy pudding with that chocolate flavor everyone loves.
  • Coconut: Coconut pudding is another variation that is very popular. To prepare it, simply add 100g of grated coconut to the pudding mixture before baking. You can also replace the milk with coconut milk for an even more intense flavor.
  • Cheese: For those who enjoy a more sophisticated touch, cheese pudding is a great choice. Add 50g of grated Parmesan cheese to the pudding mixture to obtain a slightly salty flavor that perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the condensed milk and caramel.

Curiosities

Did you know that it is one of the most beloved desserts by Brazilians? Besides being a guaranteed presence at many family gatherings, it also holds a prominent place in restaurants and bakeries.

Some say that the secret to a good pudding is the “love” put into the recipe, and that’s not far from the truth – after all, cooking is an act of care and dedication.

Another curiosity is that, in different parts of the world, pudding can be found in very distinct versions. In France, for example, there is the “crème caramel”, which is very similar to the Brazilian pudding.

In England, the term “pudding” can refer to various types of desserts, often with a consistency closer to that of a cake. This diversity shows how pudding has managed to adapt to different cultures over the centuries.

How to Serve

This is a dessert that can be served in various ways, depending on the occasion. It can be served simply, just chilled, or accompanied by fresh fruits, such as strawberries or berries, which help balance the sweetness with a touch of acidity. Another idea is to serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, creating a perfect combination of hot and cold, soft and creamy.

For more special occasions, you can prepare mini puddings in individual molds. In addition to being very charming, they are practical to serve and will ensure a beautiful presentation on your table.

Conclusion

Preparing the perfect pudding is not difficult, but it requires attention to detail and a bit of patience. With the classic recipe and the golden tips we shared, you will certainly be able to make a pudding worthy of praise. Don’t forget to try the variations we suggested to bring new flavors to this much-loved dessert.

Now that you know all the secrets to preparing a delicious pudding, why not get started and surprise your family? Pudding is one of those desserts that brings fond memories and makes any moment sweeter and more special. Enjoy your meal!

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I hope you enjoyed it

With love

Nate

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