Uruguayan Sweet Corn Pudding

Uruguayan Sweet Corn Pudding

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This beloved Uruguayan sweet corn pudding transforms fresh choclo into a silky, gently spiced dessert enjoyed throughout the Río de la Plata region. Blended with milk, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon and lemon zest, it is traditionally served chilled with a swirl of dulce de leche on top.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings4
Yield4 servings

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (estimated)

  • 455 kcalCalories
  • 10 gFat
  • 6 gSaturated Fat
  • 85 gCarbs
  • 5 gFiber
  • 55 gSugar
  • 10 gProtein
  • 140 mgSodium
  • 490 mgPotassium
  • 230 mgCalcium
  • 1.5 mgIron
  • 10 mgVitamin C
  • 220 mcgVitamin A

Ingredients

For the pudding

  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from 4 to 5 ears), or 1 lb frozen corn, thawed
  • 3 cups whole milk, divided
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 wide lemon zest strip plus 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

To finish and serve

  • Ground cinnamon, for dusting
  • Dulce de leche, for serving
  • Toasted shredded coconut, optional

Directions

  1. Combine the corn kernels with 2 cups of the milk in a blender and process until completely smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  2. Strain the corn puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing firmly with a spatula to extract as much liquid as possible; discard the solids.
  3. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the strained corn puree, the remaining 1 cup of milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until completely smooth with no lumps.
  4. Add the cinnamon stick and lemon zest, place over medium heat, and bring to a gentle boil while whisking constantly, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the butter and vanilla, cooking for 2 more minutes until the pudding is glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat, fish out the cinnamon stick and lemon zest, and pour the pudding into a serving bowl or four individual ramekins.
  7. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until thoroughly chilled and set.
  8. Serve cold, topped with a dusting of ground cinnamon and a spoonful of dulce de leche. Sprinkle with toasted coconut if you like.

Cook’s Notes

  • Fresh sweet corn delivers the best flavor and natural sweetness; if using frozen corn, thaw and drain it well before blending.
  • For an extra silky texture, strain the corn puree twice through a fine cheesecloth-lined sieve.
  • The pudding thickens considerably as it cools, so resist the urge to over-reduce it on the stove.
  • Adjust the sugar to taste; rural Uruguayan recipes often go a bit lighter and let the corn's natural sweetness shine.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and stir well before serving.
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