There’s nothing like a classic dessert to sweeten the day and bring comfort to the palate. Recipes like flan, chocolate cake, brownies, mousse, and brigadeiro not only please with their unmistakable flavor but also carry a tradition that evokes special moments. Who hasn’t gathered around a table to enjoy a creamy flan or savor a freshly baked chocolate cake? These desserts have the power to bring people together, transform celebrations, and offer a dose of happiness on any occasion.
For many, making homemade sweets is more than just cooking; it’s a true ritual, where each step brings a sense of nostalgia and pleasure. From melting chocolate for brownies to caramelizing a flan mold, each recipe has a step-by-step that connects with tradition and affection. Moreover, these classics don’t need special dates to be prepared whether it’s for a Sunday lunch dessert, an afternoon snack, or even to gift someone, they are always welcome and celebrated.
In this article, we’ll explore five recipes that bring both flavor and simplicity to our daily lives. Each recipe is accompanied by information about ingredient quantities, caloric and protein values, preparation time, and servings, so you can plan and prepare each dessert with ease. Get ready to learn the steps for these delightful treats and discover some drink pairing tips that perfectly complement each one, enhancing the flavor even more. So, let’s head to the kitchen and start making these irresistible classics that will make any day sweeter and more special!
1. Traditional Condensed Milk Flan
Ingredients:
- Sweetened condensed milk – 1 can (395g)
- Milk – 2 cans (use the condensed milk can to measure)
- Eggs – 3 units
- Sugar – 1 cup (for the caramel)
Caloric and Protein Value:
- Calories: approximately 240 kcal per serving
- Protein: around 5g per serving
Instructions and Preparation Time:
- Caramel: Melt the sugar over low heat until it forms a golden caramel and coat a flan mold with a hole in the middle. Set aside.
- Flan: In a blender, blend the condensed milk, milk, and eggs for about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the caramel-coated mold.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a water bath at 350°F (180°C) for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- After baking, let it cool and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before unmolding.
Servings: Makes 10 servings
2. Simple Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
- Sugar – 1 1/2 cups
- Cocoa powder – 3/4 cup
- Milk – 1 cup
- Eggs – 3 units
- Oil – 1/2 cup
- Baking powder – 1 tablespoon
Caloric and Protein Value:
- Calories: approximately 220 kcal per slice
- Protein: around 4g per slice
Instructions and Preparation Time:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Add the milk, eggs, and oil, stirring until you get a smooth batter.
- Add the baking powder and gently mix.
- Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 35-40 minutes.
- Let it cool slightly before cutting.
Servings: Makes 12 slices
3. Chocolate Brownies
Ingredients:
- Dark chocolate – 200g
- Butter – 100g
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Eggs – 3 units
- All-purpose flour – 1/2 cup
- Chopped walnuts – 1/2 cup (optional)
Caloric and Protein Value:
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal per piece
- Protein: around 4g per piece
Instructions and Preparation Time:
- Melt the chocolate and butter in a double boiler until smooth.
- Add the sugar and mix well.
- Add the eggs one at a time, stirring after each addition.
- Add the flour and walnuts (if using), mixing gently.
- Pour into a greased baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, let cool, and cut into squares.
Servings: Makes 8 pieces
4. Chocolate Mousse
Ingredients:
- Dark chocolate – 200g
- Heavy cream – 1 small carton (200g)
- Egg whites – 2 units
- Sugar – 2 tablespoons
Caloric and Protein Value:
- Calories: approximately 180 kcal per serving
- Protein: around 3g per serving
Instructions and Preparation Time:
- Melt the chocolate in a double boiler and mix with the heavy cream. Set aside.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and add the sugar, forming a firm meringue.
- Gently fold the meringue into the melted chocolate until combined.
- Divide into small cups and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Servings: Makes 6 servings
5. Traditional Brigadeiro
Ingredients:
- Sweetened condensed milk – 1 can (395g)
- Cocoa powder – 4 tablespoons
- Butter – 1 tablespoon
- Chocolate sprinkles for coating – to taste
Caloric and Protein Value:
- Calories: approximately 80 kcal per brigadeiro
- Protein: around 1g per brigadeiro
Instructions and Preparation Time:
- In a pan, add the condensed milk, cocoa powder, and butter.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan (about 10-12 minutes).
- Let it cool and roll into balls, coating them in the chocolate sprinkles.
- Place in small paper cups to serve.
Servings: Makes about 20 brigadeiros
These five recipes bring the traditional, irresistible flavor of homemade sweets. Whether for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these classics never disappoint!
