Crispy Fried Milk Bites (Latte Fritto) – Italian Dessert Recipe

Fried Milk (Latte Fritto) Recipe

Category: Desserts
Servings: 8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Fried Milk, known as Latte Fritto in Italian, is a delightful dessert that combines a creamy, velvety milk custard with a crispy, golden exterior. This dessert is a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors, with the soft and smooth interior perfectly complemented by the crunchy coating. It’s perfect for those looking for a unique treat that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Custard Base:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornstarch, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix the dry ingredients together until well blended.
   • Pour in the whole milk and stir constantly to dissolve the cornstarch and sugar.

2. Cook the Mixture:

   • Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or a spatula (using a whisk is not recommended as it may break down the custard, leading to an undesirable texture).
   • Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. As soon as it starts to become thick and begins to clump together, remove it from the heat and continue stirring vigorously until smooth.

3. Cool the Custard:

   • Once the custard is smooth and glossy, quickly pour it into a rectangular baking dish (approximately 26×19 cm or 10×7 inches) lined with parchment paper. Spread the custard evenly to ensure a smooth, flat surface.
   • Let the custard cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until completely set. This step is crucial to make sure the custard firms up properly for frying.

4. Prepare the Coating:

   • Once the custard has set, cut it into small, bite-sized squares (approximately 18 pieces, depending on the size you prefer).
   • In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and prepare another shallow dish with breadcrumbs.
   • Dip each piece of custard first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is well-coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered.

5. Fry the Milk Pieces:

   • Heat peanut oil in a deep frying pan or pot to about 170°C (340°F). It is important not to overcrowd the pan, so fry the pieces in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
   • Carefully lower the breaded milk squares into the hot oil and fry for about 1 minute or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
   • Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried milk from the oil and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

   • Serve the fried milk immediately while still hot and crispy. These golden treats are best enjoyed fresh, as the exterior remains crispy while the inside is wonderfully creamy and smooth.

Tips:

• Milk Choice: For best results, use whole milk for a rich and creamy custard. Skim or low-fat milk may not achieve the same silky texture.
• Custard Consistency: Be sure to stir constantly during cooking to avoid lumps. The custard should be thick enough to hold its shape but still smooth.
• Frying Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside cooks; if it’s too cool, the milk may absorb too much oil.
• Variation: You can experiment with different coatings, such as adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the breadcrumbs for a more aromatic flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Latte Fritto is an Italian classic that transforms the simple ingredients of milk, sugar, and eggs into a crispy and comforting treat. With its rich flavor and satisfying crunch, this dessert is sure to impress anyone looking for a new and indulgent way to enjoy milk. Whether you serve it as a special family dessert or at your next dinner party, it is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!