Imagine a dessert that perfectly bridges the gap between traditional Mexican cuisine and creamy, indulgent comfort food. This Creamy Custard and Tortilla Tart is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that transforms humble corn tortillas into a stunning, silky-smooth dessert that will have your guests begging for seconds. With a golden, slightly crisp tortilla base and a luxuriously smooth custard filling, this unique tart combines familiar flavors in an unexpected and irresistible way.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 corn tortillas
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch tart pan or pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Prepare the tortilla base by cutting corn tortillas to fit the bottom and sides of the tart pan. Slightly overlap the tortillas to create a complete base and sides, pressing them gently to adhere.
- In a medium saucepan, combine milk and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, being careful not to let it boil.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
- Slowly pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
- Strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a smooth texture, removing any potential egg solids.
- Carefully pour the strained custard over the tortilla base in the prepared pan, ensuring an even distribution.
- Place the tart pan on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow and transfer to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should be golden and slightly puffed.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature for about 1 hour. The custard will continue to set as it cools.
- Optional: Dust with additional ground cinnamon or powdered sugar before serving. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for a firmer texture.
- Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature. Best enjoyed within 2 days when stored covered in the refrigerator.
Tips
- Temper your eggs carefully when adding hot cream to prevent scrambling. Pour slowly and whisk continuously.
- Use a fine-mesh sieve when straining the custard to ensure an ultra-smooth texture.
- For the best presentation, choose fresh, soft corn tortillas that will mold easily to your tart pan.
- Allow the tart to cool completely at room temperature to help the custard set properly.
- For an extra touch of elegance, consider garnishing with fresh berries or a light dusting of cinnamon.
- Don't overbake! The custard should still have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven.
- Chilling the tart for a few hours before serving can enhance its flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 140mg
