Milk Panels (Leche Asada)

Milk panels, also known as Leche Asada in some Latin American countries, is a simple and delicious custard-like dessert. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for this traditional treat:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• Caramel sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
• Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth and uniform.

1. Prepare the Baking Dish:

• You can use a large baking dish or individual ramekins. If desired, pour a thin layer of caramel sauce into the bottom of the dish or ramekins.

1. Bake:

• Pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish or ramekins.
• Place the dish or ramekins in a larger baking pan. Carefully pour hot water into the larger pan until it reaches about halfway up the sides of the dish or ramekins. This water bath helps the custard cook evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown.

1. Cool:

• Remove the dish or ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set fully.

1. Serve:

• Serve chilled, optionally topped with additional caramel sauce. Enjoy your milk panels!