How to Make Brazilian Milk Pudding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to make an authentic Brazilian milk pudding! If you haven’t tried it yet, this is the best dessert you can try with your family.

Brazilian milk pudding, or Pudim de Leite Condensado, is a beloved dessert in Brazil. This creamy, caramel-topped treat is similar to flan but with a richer flavor due to the sweetened condensed milk.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is sure to impress. Here’s how to make it at home.

How to Make Brazilian Milk Pudding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

For the caramel:

• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of water

For the pudding:

• 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups of whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)

Equipment

• A 10-inch round cake pan or a Bundt pan
• A large roasting pan
• A blender or whisk
• Aluminum foil

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

1. Melt the Sugar: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Caramelize the Sugar: Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Let it cook until it turns a deep amber color. This can take about 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Coat the Pan: Immediately pour the caramel into the bottom of your cake or Bundt pan. Quickly tilt the pan to coat the bottom evenly with the caramel. Set it aside to cool and harden.

Step 2: Make the Pudding Mixture

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If you don’t have a blender, you can whisk the ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.
2. Strain the Mixture (Optional): For an extra smooth texture, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl to remove any egg solids.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pudding

1. Pour the Mixture into the Pan: Carefully pour the Brazilian Milk Pudding mixture over the hardened caramel in the pan.
2. Prepare a Water Bath: Place the Brazilian Milk Pudding pan in a large roasting pan. Fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pudding pan. This water bath will help the pudding cook evenly and prevent it from cracking.
3. Cover with Foil: Cover the Brazilian Milk Pudding pan loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too much.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pudding in the water bath for about 60-75 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is still slightly jiggly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Cool the Pudding: Remove the Brazilian Milk Pudding from the oven and let it cool in the water bath for about 30 minutes. Then, take the pudding pan out of the water bath and allow it to cool completely at room temperature.
2. Chill: Once the pudding has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This will help it set completely and make it easier to unmold.
3. Unmold the Pudding: To unmold, run a knife around the edge of the pudding to loosen it from the pan. Place a serving plate over the pan, then quickly invert the pan and plate together. The pudding should release easily, with the caramel cascading over the top.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pudding and serve it chilled. The creamy texture and sweet caramel make it a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Eggs: Fresh eggs help give the pudding a smooth texture. Make sure they are at room temperature before using.
• Don’t Rush the Caramel: Be patient when making the caramel. It’s better to cook it slowly to avoid burning.
• Strain the Mixture: Straining the pudding mixture before baking ensures a silky-smooth texture.
• Check the Water Bath: Make sure the water bath doesn’t dry out during baking. If necessary, add more hot water to the roasting pan.

Brazilian milk pudding is a classic dessert that brings a taste of Brazil to your table. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it a favorite among many.

With this step-by-step guide, you can create this delicious treat at home, impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills. Enjoy!

Read more: Delicious Homemade Banana Cake Recipe