Get ready to elevate your holiday gatherings with a delightful dessert that will leave your guests begging for seconds! Introducing "Holiday Cooking with Hood Cream"—a luscious custard infused with the vibrant flavors of seasonal fruits, all wrapped up in a creamy, dreamy base. This recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a stunning centerpiece that will have everyone talking long after the last bite. Whether you're hosting a festive dinner or looking for a sweet indulgence to enjoy at home, this dish is sure to impress. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create a dessert that captures the essence of the holidays!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup Hood Cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups mixed seasonal fruits
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by measuring them precisely and bringing eggs and cream to room temperature for optimal blending.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly pale.
- Gradually pour Hood Cream into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to create a uniform custard base.
- Wash and carefully chop mixed seasonal fruits into small, uniform pieces.
- Toss fruit pieces with cornstarch to prevent clumping and help thicken the fruit component.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a water bath by placing a large baking dish with hot water on the lower oven rack.
- Gently fold cornstarch-coated fruits into the cream mixture, ensuring even distribution.
- Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
- Place the baking dish in the prepared water bath and bake for 25-30 minutes until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Garnish with additional fresh fruits or a light dusting of powdered sugar before presenting.
Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, make sure your eggs and Hood Cream are at room temperature. This helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a creamier custard.
- Whisking Technique: When combining the eggs, sugar, and vanilla, whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale. This incorporates air, giving your custard a light texture.
- Fruit Preparation: Choose a mix of seasonal fruits for a colorful and flavorful twist. Be sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even distribution throughout the custard.
- Cornstarch Coating: Tossing your fruit with cornstarch before mixing it into the custard helps prevent clumping and thickens the fruit, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.
- Water Bath Method: Baking in a water bath ensures gentle, even cooking, preventing the custard from curdling. Make sure the water is hot before placing it in the oven!
- Cooling and Chilling: Allow the custard to cool at room temperature before refrigerating. Chilling for at least 2 hours helps the flavors meld and enhances the creamy texture.
- Garnishing: For a beautiful presentation, garnish with additional fresh fruits or a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 120mg
