| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 250 | 10g | 5g | 34g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 2g | 6g | 0.3g |
The Sweet Custard Himbabaos recipe is a delightful fusion of sweetness and nutrition, capturing the essence of ripe fruits and creamy custard in every bite. Growing up in Charleston, South Carolina, my love for desserts with a hint of coastal charm has only deepened over the years. This dish combines the timeless allure of custard with the vibrant hues and flavors of summer fruits, making it a standout for any occasion.
Fruits and Custard: A Harmonious Marriage
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is the way it brings together a diverse array of fresh fruits with a luscious custard base. The combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and peaches creates a melody of flavors that is hard to resist. Strawberries add a touch of tartness, blueberries offer a burst of sweetness, raspberries contribute a tangy note, and peaches bring in juiciness with their sunny disposition. Each bite feels like a step closer to summer.
A Touch of Charleston Flair
Being a Southern belle from Charleston, seafood often graces my table, but nothing quite hits the spot like a well-made dessert. The Sweet Custard Himbabaos reminds me of my childhood days, where simple pleasures were celebrated with family gatherings. It’s reminiscent of traditional Southern desserts, but the addition of fresh fruits adds a modern twist that brings in the freshness of the coast. It’s akin to the way a bowl of fresh peach cobbler or a slice of berry-stuffed pie feels on a warm summer day in Charleston.
Health benefits are another reason this recipe is close to my heart. Custard made from whole milk and eggs is a rich source of protein and calcium. By introducing fresh fruits, we boost the fiber content and add a variety of essential vitamins and antioxidants to the mix. Strawberries and blueberries are known for their high vitamin C content, while peaches are a good source of vitamin A and potassium. A dollop of honey not only sweetens the custard but also adds natural antibacterial properties. If you’re someone who enjoys the nutritional benefits of fruits, you will find this recipe a delightful yet healthy indulgence.
Not only does this dessert stand well on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other Southern classics. Try serving it alongside a plate of fried chicken or a bowl of shrimp and grits to round out your meal with the perfect sweet ending. And if you’re in the mood for something even more festive, this custard can be elegantly layered in a trifle bowl for a stunning presentation at your next gathering.
Ultimately, the Sweet Custard Himbabaos is a celebration of the best seasonal ingredients wrapped in a comfortingly familiar hug of custard. It brings together the traditional and the contemporary in a way that only Southern-inspired cuisine can. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply wanting to treat yourself to a luxurious dessert, this recipe will not disappoint.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
- 1/2 cup fresh peaches, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step Two
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar and 4 large eggs until well combined and smooth.
Step Three
Gradually add in 2 cups whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully blended.
Step Four
Pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step Five
Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan. Fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish to create a water bath.
Step Six
Carefully place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
Step Seven
While the custard is baking, prepare the fruit topping. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup honey, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
Step Eight
Remove the thickened honey mixture from heat and gently fold in 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, 1/2 cup fresh blueberries, 1/2 cup fresh raspberries, and 1/2 cup fresh peaches. Mix until the fruits are evenly coated.
Step Nine
Let the fruit mixture cool to room temperature.
Step Ten
Once the custard is done baking, remove it from the oven and water bath. Let it cool completely.
Step Eleven
Spoon the prepared fruit mixture over the top of the cooled custard.
Step Twelve
Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your Sweet Custard Himbabaos!
