Have you ever craved that irresistible Brazilian-style custard cake, known as Caçarola Italiana, often found in local bakeries? Well, today is the day you learn how to make it at home, with a special touch: a delicious, glossy caramel sauce. This recipe is a perfect dessert option that doesn’t use condensed milk, making it ideal for surprising your family and friends. Let’s uncover the secret to this Caçarola Italiana, which is as easy to prepare as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk (1 liter)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or margarine
- 7 oz (200g) mild, firm cheese (like Minas Frescal or a mild Queso Fresco)
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 5 drops of yellow food coloring
How to Prepare Brazilian Caçarola Italiana:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a blender, combine the milk, sugar, eggs, flour, butter, and cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the shredded coconut to half of the batter and add the 5 drops of yellow food coloring. Blend for another minute.
- Pulse the remaining plain batter briefly to combine.
- Prepare the caramel sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of sugar until it turns into a golden caramel. Carefully stir in 1/2 cup of boiling water until completely dissolved. Pour the caramel into your baking dish, coating the bottom evenly.
- Pour the batter into the caramelized dish.
- Bake in a bain-marie (water bath) for 40 to 50 minutes.
- Allow it to cool completely before unmolding. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfection:
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can aim for a creamy cheese layer on top or a slightly firmer, golden crust. Both methods result in an irresistibly decadent cake.
Prep and Cook Time:
This treat will be ready in approximately 40 to 50 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) using the water bath method. Adding a splash of vinegar to the water bath helps prevent the baking dish from staining.
Yield:
This recipe makes one delicious Brazilian custard cake, perfect for sharing. Servings depend on the size of your baking dish.
A Fun Fact:
Ever notice the bright yellow color of bakery-style Caçarolas? It is often achieved with additives like tartrazine. We chose a more natural approach using yellow food coloring, achieving that same vibrant, iconic look safely at home.
Whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, this dessert is sure to win your heart. With simple pantry staples and easy steps, you can now enjoy this classic treat anytime. Get ready to impress your guests with this homemade Brazilian treasure!
Try it today and treat yourself to this unique culinary experience!