Chilled Espresso Custard: A Delightful Summer Dessert
Indulging in a creamy dessert during the warm summer months is an experience that can be both refreshing and satisfying, and this Chilled Espresso Custard is the perfect addition to your dessert repertoire. Inspired by a recipe from a South Beach Diet newsletter, this delightful custard combines the rich flavors of espresso with a velvety texture, making it an ideal treat for coffee lovers and those seeking a lighter dessert option. Not only does this custard provide a delicious way to cool down, but it is also relatively low in calories, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 108 |
| Total Fat | 3.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 110.3 mg |
| Sodium | 75.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugars | 11.4 g |
| Protein | 6.5 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 1% Low-Fat Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Sugar Substitute | 3 tablespoons |
| Instant Decaffeinated Coffee | 2 tablespoons |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Cinnamon | To garnish |
| Lemon Twist | For garnish |
Preparation Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by whisking together the 1 1/2 cups of 1% low-fat milk, 2 large eggs, 3 tablespoons of sugar substitute, 2 tablespoons of instant decaffeinated coffee, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. |
| 2 | Once your mixture is thoroughly combined, pour it into four 6-ounce custard cups or ramekins, ensuring each cup is evenly filled. |
| 3 | Prepare a 10-inch skillet by placing the filled custard cups inside it. Then, carefully fill the skillet with water until it reaches about 1/2 inch from the tops of the custard cups, ensuring the cups are nestled safely within the water bath. |
| 4 | Over high heat, bring the water to a boil, allowing the steam to create a gentle cooking environment for the custard. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the custard simmer for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the heat to set the custard. |
| 5 | After simmering, carefully remove the custard cups from the skillet. To prevent a skin from forming, cover each cup with plastic wrap, ensuring that the wrap touches the surface of the custard. This will help maintain its smooth texture. |
| 6 | Refrigerate the covered custard for at least 3 hours or until it is fully chilled. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a delightful dessert experience. |
| 7 | Before serving, remove the custard from the refrigerator. Garnish each cup with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a twist of lemon for an elegant touch that adds brightness to the rich custard. |
Serving Suggestions
This Chilled Espresso Custard makes for a sophisticated yet simple dessert that can be enjoyed alone or accompanied by a light fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream. The subtle espresso flavor pairs beautifully with a range of desserts, so feel free to get creative with your pairings.
Conclusion
As summer approaches, this Chilled Espresso Custard is the perfect dessert to bring to gatherings, serve at dinner parties, or simply enjoy on a warm afternoon. With its easy preparation and delightful flavor, this custard is sure to impress both family and friends alike. Enjoy each creamy bite, and let the rich taste of coffee transport you to a cozy café, all from the comfort of your home. Happy indulging!
