Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries

Pecan-Crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries Recipe - Rich and Creamy Delight

Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries is a delightful and decadent dessert that combines creamy custard with the sweetness of peaches and the tartness of fresh berries. The pecan crust adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on classic custard desserts, incorporating seasonal fruits and nuts for a unique and delicious flavor combination. Custards have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

2.25 cups milk
0.33 cup pure maple syrup
1 (4.6 oz (130 g)) package jell-o Brand vanilla flavor Cook-and-Serve Pudding & Pie

Filling

3 fresh peaches
1 cup pecan halves
2 tbsp pure maple syrup
0.75 cup heavy cream
6 tbsp light brown sugar
2 – 3 cups assorted fresh berries
garnish: fresh mint leaves

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, stir together 1 cup of milk and 0.33 cup of maple syrup.
Stir in the pudding and pie filling.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
Pour the mixture into a medium bowl and let it cool for 45 minutes.
Meanwhile, peel the peaches and cut them into slices.
Heat the pecans in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
Let the pecans cool for 10 minutes, then finely chop them.
Place 4 tsp of chopped pecans in each of 6 (6 oz (170 g)) ramekins.
Drizzle 1 tsp of maple syrup over the pecans in each ramekin.
Beat the heavy cream at medium speed with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Fold the whipped cream into the cooled milk mixture.
Spoon the custard mixture evenly into the ramekins.
Chill the ramekins for 2 hours or until set.
Place the brown sugar in a small fine wire mesh strainer.
Using the back of a spoon, press the sugar through the strainer onto the tops of the chilled custards.
Arrange the ramekins in a shallow roasting or broiler pan filled with ice.
Broil the ramekins 5 inches from the heat for 2-3 minutes, until the sugar is melted.
Let the ramekins stand for 5 minutes to allow the sugar to harden.
Place the ramekins on individual serving plates and arrange peach slices and assorted berries around them.
If desired, sprinkle the tops of the custards with the remaining pecans (about 4 tsp each) as garnish.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as raspberries or blackberries in place of the berries.
Experiment with different nuts for the crust, such as almonds or walnuts.
Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mixture for a boozy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the pecans before adding them to the ramekins for a richer flavor.

- Chilling the custard mixture before serving helps it set properly and enhances the texture.

- Broiling the custards with brown sugar creates a caramelized topping that adds a sweet crunch to each bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries as a elegant dessert after a special meal. Pair it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of coffee for a perfect ending to a dinner party.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include boiling, chilling, broiling, and garnishing. These steps ensure that the custard sets properly and the sugar caramelizes to create a crunchy topping.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative to regular milk.

- Substitute honey or agave nectar for the maple syrup.

- Swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream for a vegan version of the dessert.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the custard mixture and toast the pecans ahead of time, then assemble and broil the custards just before serving. This makes it a convenient dessert option for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This dessert pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, dessert wines, or even a glass of champagne. The sweet and creamy flavors complement a range of drinks.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover custards in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the ramekins under the broiler for a few minutes until the sugar topping is melted and caramelized again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 380 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 38g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 24g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C from the peaches and berries, as well as calcium and Vitamin D from the milk.

Alergens

Contains: Milk, Pecans

Summary

This dessert is a rich and indulgent treat, with a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries is a luxurious dessert that combines creamy custard with the sweetness of peaches, the tartness of berries, and the crunch of toasted pecans. This recipe is a perfect way to indulge in a decadent treat that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor pick fresh peaches and berries from her garden. She invited me into her kitchen to share a special dessert recipe that she had learned from her grandmother many years ago.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared the custard, she shared with me the story of how this recipe came to be a family favorite. She told me that her grandmother used to make it for special occasions, and that it always brought smiles to the faces of everyone who tasted it. I could tell that this dessert held a special place in her heart, and I was honored that she had chosen to pass it on to me.

The custard was a simple mixture of eggs, sugar, and cream, but the real magic came from the pecan crust that we prepared to top it off. We crushed up fresh pecans and mixed them with butter and brown sugar to create a crunchy, sweet topping that would complement the creamy custard perfectly.

Once the custard was baked and the pecan crust was golden brown, we topped it off with fresh sliced peaches and berries that had been tossed in a light syrup. The combination of flavors and textures was truly divine, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made this Pecan-crusted Custard with Peaches and Berries for countless gatherings and celebrations. Each time I serve it, I am reminded of the special connection that I have to my neighbor and her family, and I am grateful for the way that cooking has brought us together.

I have shared this recipe with my own family and friends, and it has become a beloved tradition in our household. My grandchildren love to help me prepare the custard and crush the pecans for the crust, and I can see the same excitement in their eyes that I felt when I first learned how to make it.

As I pass this recipe on to future generations, I know that it will continue to bring joy and memories to those who taste it. Cooking is more than just following a set of instructions – it is a way to connect with others, to create something special, and to carry on traditions that have been passed down through the years.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe and to share it with others, and I will continue to cherish the memories that it brings with each bite. Cooking truly is a labor of love, and I am grateful for the joy and connection that it has brought into my life.