Puerto Rican Pudding

Puerto Rican Pudding Recipe: A Delicious Dessert from Puerto Rico

Region / culture: Puerto Rico | Servings: 12

Introduction

Puerto Rican Pudding, also known as Budín de Pan, is a delicious and comforting dessert that is popular in Puerto Rico and other Latin American countries. This sweet and creamy pudding is made with simple ingredients like bread, milk, eggs, and sugar, and is flavored with vanilla and coconut cream. It is a perfect dessert to enjoy with family and friends on special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

History

Puerto Rican Pudding has its roots in Spanish cuisine, as many traditional Puerto Rican dishes do. The recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved over time to include ingredients like coconut cream and raisins, which are commonly used in Puerto Rican desserts. This pudding is often served during holidays and celebrations, and is a beloved dessert in Puerto Rican culture.

Ingredients

2 cans of evaporated milk
raisins (as many or few as desired)
1 stick of melted butter
1 tsp of vanilla flavoring
1 tsp of salt
1 to 2 cups of sugar (or to taste)
2 eggs
1 can of cream of coconut
1 qt (946 ml) of regular milk
1.5 loaves of bread or equivalent (preferably old or stale bread)
cinnamon powder (optional)

How to prepare

First, break up the bread into small pieces.
Add evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, salt, and butter, along with coconut cream.
Mix well using a wooden spoon, then add regular milk and sugar.
Mix again.
Next, add raisins and cinnamon. Make sure to separate the raisins if they are clumped together.
Grease the pan with non-stick spray or butter.
Pour the mixture into a large rectangular pan, such as a lasagna pan (avoid using aluminum ones).
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow it to cool.
You can store it at room temperature or refrigerate it.
Cut it into square pieces.
Serve with whipped cream on top, if desired.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of regular milk for a more intense coconut flavor.
Substitute white bread with whole wheat or gluten-free bread for a healthier option.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to break up the bread into small pieces to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Grease the pan well before pouring in the mixture to prevent sticking.

- Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Allow the pudding to cool before cutting into squares to ensure it sets properly.

- Serve with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Puerto Rican Pudding can be served warm or cold, and is delicious on its own or topped with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a sweet and satisfying dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the ingredients well to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Bake the pudding in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

- Allow the pudding to cool before serving to allow it to set properly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond or soy milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Substitute margarine for butter for a dairy-free option.

- Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

Make Ahead Tips

Puerto Rican Pudding can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for a warm and comforting dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the pudding into squares and serve on a decorative platter. - Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch. - Serve in individual ramekins for a personalized dessert presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Puerto Rican Pudding pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It also goes well with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Puerto Rican Pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Puerto Rican Pudding contains approximately 300 calories. Calories provide the body with energy to function properly and carry out daily activities.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Puerto Rican Pudding contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are important for overall health and well-being.

Fats

Each serving of Puerto Rican Pudding contains approximately 12 grams of fat. Fat is essential for the body to function properly and provides energy, helps absorb vitamins, and supports cell growth.

Proteins

Each serving of Puerto Rican Pudding contains approximately 8 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues, and is essential for overall health and muscle growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Puerto Rican Pudding is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and iron. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, and iron is essential for healthy blood cells.

Alergens

Puerto Rican Pudding contains dairy (milk, eggs) and wheat (bread), which may be allergens for some individuals. It is important to check for any food allergies before consuming this dessert.

Summary

Puerto Rican Pudding is a delicious and creamy dessert that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Puerto Rican Pudding is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, this creamy pudding is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy a taste of Puerto Rican cuisine with this traditional recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one I won't soon forget. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that belonged to my mother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and faded scraps of paper, one particular recipe caught my eye. It was for a Puerto Rican Pudding, a dish I had never heard of before.

Curiosity piqued, I set out to learn more about this intriguing dessert. I asked around to see if anyone in my circle of friends and family had heard of it, but no one seemed to know anything about Puerto Rican Pudding. Determined to uncover its secrets, I turned to the internet for answers.

After hours of researching and reading through various recipes, I finally stumbled upon a blog written by a woman who had spent time in Puerto Rico and learned how to make the traditional pudding. Her detailed instructions and mouthwatering photos inspired me to try my hand at making it myself.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients, including coconut milk, cinnamon, sugar, and cornstarch, and set to work in the kitchen. The aroma of the spices filled the air as I stirred the mixture on the stove, watching as it thickened into a creamy pudding.

As I poured the pudding into individual ramekins and let it cool in the refrigerator, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had discovered a new recipe, one that had been passed down through generations in Puerto Rico, and now it was a part of my own culinary repertoire.

The next day, I invited my family over to sample the Puerto Rican Pudding. As they took their first bites, their eyes lit up with delight. The creamy texture, the subtle sweetness, and the hint of cinnamon all combined to create a truly unforgettable dessert.

From that moment on, Puerto Rican Pudding became a staple in our household. I made it for special occasions and family gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried it. It became my signature dish, a recipe that I was proud to have unearthed and mastered.

Over the years, I have continued to experiment with different variations of the pudding, adding in new flavors and ingredients to make it my own. But no matter how many times I tweak the recipe, the essence of Puerto Rican Pudding remains the same – a rich and decadent dessert that brings joy to all who taste it.

I am grateful for the serendipitous discovery of this recipe, for it has not only added a new and delicious dish to my cooking repertoire but has also opened my eyes to the beauty and diversity of Puerto Rican cuisine. It is a reminder that there is always something new to learn in the world of cooking, and that the journey of discovering new recipes and flavors is one that is both enriching and rewarding.

As I sit here, reflecting on the journey that led me to Puerto Rican Pudding, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures that have shaped me into the cook I am today. And I am excited to see where my next culinary discovery will take me. But for now, I will savor the memories of that warm summer day when I stumbled upon a recipe that would forever hold a special place in my heart.