Quindim is a cherished Brazilian dessert with roots in Portuguese cuisine. Known for its bright yellow color, silky texture, and delightful sweetness, this custard-based treat highlights the richness of egg yolks, sugar, and coconut. Whether served as individual portions or baked as a single dish, quindim is a true treasure that will transport you straight to the heart of Brazil.
This recipe offers simple ingredients and a straightforward process while delivering a dessert that’s rich, elegant, and irresistible. Whether you’re preparing quindim for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of Brazilian tradition, this step-by-step guide will ensure success every time.
Why You'll Love Quindim
- Simple Ingredients: Only three main components are needed—egg yolks, sugar, and shredded coconut.
- Irresistible Texture: Silky custard with a delicate golden topping.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Serve as individual portions for a festive, shareable dessert.
- Cultural Classic: A bite of Brazilian culinary heritage!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this golden Brazilian delicacy:
- 12 large egg yolks – Egg yolks give quindim its rich flavor and vibrant yellow color. Be sure to separate them carefully and strain for the smoothest texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness while helping achieve the custard’s perfect consistency.
- 1 cup shredded coconut – Provides texture and a burst of tropical coconut flavor. Opt for finely shredded unsweetened coconut for the best results.
- Butter (for greasing) – Ensures your quindins release smoothly from the ramekins or baking dish.
Optional for Enhanced Flavor:
- Use coconut milk for added creaminess.
- Add a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make perfect quindim every time:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a water bath (bain-marie) by filling a large baking dish halfway with water.
2. Prepare the Egg Yolks
Carefully separate the egg yolks from the whites. Strain the yolks through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. This step removes any egg whites or membranes, ensuring a smooth, silky custard.
3. Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the strained egg yolks and sugar. Whisk until the mixture becomes pale yellow and slightly thick.
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut. Stir until everything is evenly combined. If using coconut milk, add it at this stage for a richer batter.
4. Prepare the Molds
- Grease the ramekins or a 9x13-inch baking dish generously with butter.
- Pour the batter into the molds, filling them about 3/4 of the way.
5. Bake the Quindim
- Place the filled ramekins (or baking dish) into the prepared water bath. The water should come up about halfway along the sides of the molds.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the quindins are set and the tops turn golden brown.
- To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
6. Cool and Unmold
- Allow the quindins to cool completely at room temperature.
- Run a knife gently along the edges of each mold to loosen the custard, then carefully invert onto a plate to reveal the glossy, golden top.
Pro Tips for Perfect Quindim
- Strain the egg yolks: This step eliminates any unwanted eggy flavors and ensures the custard is silky smooth.
- Water bath is key: Baking the custards in a bain-marie ensures even, gentle cooking and prevents cracks or curdling.
- Use fresh coconut: For a more authentic texture and flavor, finely grated fresh coconut can be used instead of dried coconut.
- Coconut milk twist: Replace a portion of the sugar with sweetened coconut milk for an extra layer of creamy, tropical flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair quindim with a hot cup of Brazilian coffee for a perfect end to a meal.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a dollop of whipped cream for a decorative touch.
- Add fresh tropical fruits like mango or pineapple to balance the sweetness with a refreshing bite.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This quindim recipe captures the essence of Brazilian cuisine with its simplicity and elegance. By combining just a few key ingredients—egg yolks, sugar, and coconut—it creates a dessert that’s both stunning to look at and delightful to taste. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a touch of indulgence, this authentic Brazilian quindim is a recipe you'll come back to time and time again.
Final Thoughts
With its silky texture, golden hue, and rich flavor, quindim is truly a dessert treasure. Simple to make yet impressive to serve, this classic treat brings a taste of Brazil to your table. Save this recipe, share it with loved ones, and savor the irresistible magic of this iconic Brazilian custard.