Peruvian · Dessert · Easy
Leche Asada
- Total
- 4 hr 25 min
- Prep
- 3 hr 30 min
- Serves
- 8
- Calories
- 180
Milk steeped with cinnamon and lemon bakes into a lightly browned custard. The soft center chills into clean, cool spoonfuls.
Direct oven heat gives Leche Asada its browned surface and gently rustic texture. Infusing the milk first spreads cinnamon and lemon through the custard without leaving pieces in the finished dessert.
Whisk the eggs gently rather than beating in lots of air. Pull the pan when the center is set with a slight wobble; the custard continues to firm as it cools and chills.
Method
Heat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Combine whole milk, lemon zest and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Bring just to a simmer over medium heat, then cook over low heat for . Remove from the heat and steep for .
Whisk eggs and sugar gently until blended. Slowly whisk in a cup of warm milk, then stir the egg mixture into the saucepan.
Strain into a shallow 2-quart baking dish. Bake for until browned in spots and the center is set with a slight wobble and reaches 160°F.
Cool for , then cover and refrigerate for before spooning into bowls.
Forkue tips
- Use a shallow dish; a deep bowl takes longer to set and can overcook the edges.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days and serve cold. Avoid freezing, which can make the custard separate and release water.
Kitchen gear
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Leche Asada: FAQ
Does it need a water bath?
No, direct baking creates the characteristic browned surface. A moderate oven and checking the center prevent the custard from becoming rubbery.
Why does my custard have bubbles?
Vigorous whisking traps air, and overbaking expands it. Mix gently and stop baking once the center is just set.
How do I store and reheat Leche Asada?
Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days and serve cold. Avoid freezing, which can make the custard separate and release water.
How long does Leche Asada take?
About 4 hr 25 min in total: 3 hr 30 min prep and 55 min cooking.
What do I need to make Leche Asada?
The key ingredients are whole milk, lemon, cinnamon sticks and eggs, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Leche Asada?
Use a shallow dish; a deep bowl takes longer to set and can overcook the edges.
