| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 60 mins – 90 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 525 | 30g | 17g | 56g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 42g | 5g | 11g | 0.2g |
It’s a joy to be sharing with you my Baked Sapote Custard recipe. A delicate balance of rich, cream, and sweet, fragrant sapote – this is a dessert that elicits comfort and a spirit of nostalgia. The sapote, a luscious fruit often enjoyed on its own, now becomes the star in this family cherished recipe.
A Melting Pot of Italian-American Influence
Though it isn’t traditionally Italian, the Baked Sapote Custard bears a striking resemblance to my Nonna’s panna cotta or crema cotta. What I love about this recipe is the fact that it introduces the unique sapote fruit into an Italian-American context, creating a thrilling blend of flavors in a way that reminds me of my own upbringing in New Jersey. The custard base, reminiscent of Italian classics, embraces this Central American fruit, creating a delicious culinary bridge.
Family, Food, and Fond Memories
As a grandfather, I find unique satisfaction in keeping the torch of culinary tradition burning. This recipe, in particular, carries with it strong associations of cooking with my grandparents in their kitchen, the teasing aroma enveloping the house, and excited anticipation of dessert round the supper table. Now, I make them with my grandchildren, and those memories live on.
Benefits Beyond the Palate
More than an indulgent treat, this Baked Sapote Custard brings to the table the nutritional goodness of sapote. This tropical fruit is packed with vitamins like A, C, and E, providing an immune system boost. Besides, the heavy cream and milk in this recipe are rich in calcium and protein, contributing to bone health and muscle growth, respectively.
Perfect Pairings
While this custard stands on its own as a delectable dessert, it also pairs beautifully with other dishes. I find it complements a robust Italian baked chicken or a hearty dressing with its creamy sweetness. It also goes well with a simple, black coffee after a meal, akin to enjoying a slice of traditional tiramisu.
Whether you’re new to sapote or a long-time fan, I hope this Baked Sapote Custard brings a touch of warmth and familial love to your table, as it does to mine.
What You’ll Need
- 3 ripe Sapote fruits
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 large eggs
- 1 and 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, prepare your Sapote fruits. Slice each fruit in half and remove the seeds, and then scoop out the flesh, and puree it in a blender until smooth.
Step Two
In a large bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, pour the melted butter and flour. Stir together to form a smooth paste, and then gradually whisk this paste into the milk and egg mixture.
Step Four
Add in your pureed Sapote fruit to the mixture and thoroughly stir until the custard is well mixed.
Step Five
Pour the custard into a baking dish and place in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is slightly browned.
Step Six
After baking, remove the custard from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. It can be served warm or chilled according your preference.
