Natilla
Colombian Cornstarch Custard
A beloved Colombian Christmas dessert, this creamy, cornstarch-based custard is infused with the warm flavors of panela and cinnamon. It's a smooth, sweet treat that sets to a delightful pudding-like consistency.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 liter (about 4 cups) Whole Milk
- 300g (about 1.5 cups, finely chopped or grated) Panela (unrefined whole cane sugar)(Panela is a traditional sweetener. If unavailable, substitute with dark brown sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.)
- 100g (about 1 cup, sifted) Cornstarch(Sifting cornstarch prevents lumps.)
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks(Use good quality cinnamon sticks for best flavor.)
- 30g (about 2 tablespoons) Unsalted Butter(Adds richness and a smooth finish.)
- 1 cup (240ml) Cold Water or Milk(For making the cornstarch slurry.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the 1 liter of milk, chopped panela, cinnamon sticks, and butter. Place over medium heat.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Once the panela has mostly dissolved and the mixture is warm (not boiling), stir well. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted cornstarch with the 1 cup of cold water or milk until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This is your cornstarch slurry.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Gradually pour the cornstarch slurry into the warm milk mixture in the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or whisk.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 4
Remove the cinnamon sticks from the thickened custard. Pour the hot natilla into a lightly greased mold or individual serving dishes. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until completely set.
⏱️ 30 minutes (cooling) + 4 hours (chilling)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Constant stirring is essential to achieve a smooth, lump-free custard and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- ✓Natilla is a traditional centerpiece of Colombian Christmas celebrations.
- ✓Serve chilled, often accompanied by buñuelos (Colombian cheese fritters) or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Increase the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of ground cloves for a more intense spice flavor.