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Watalappan – Cardamom Coconut Custard

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Watalappan is a rich Sri Lankan coconut custard flavored with warm cardamom and nutmeg and sweetened with caramel-like brown sugar. Baked gently in a water bath, this silky dessert has a smooth texture and aromatic tropical flavor.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Sri Lankan
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 3 whole eggs
  • 4 egg yolks
  • 200 g brown sugar
  • 60 ml water
  • 400 ml coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (for greasing ramekins)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 320°F (160°C). Lightly grease ramekins with vegetable oil and place them inside a deep baking dish.
  2. If using whole cardamom pods, grind the seeds until finely ground.
  3. Separate four eggs, reserving the yolks and setting the whites aside for another use.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and water until the sugar begins to dissolve.
  5. Add the ground cardamom, nutmeg, and salt and whisk until evenly combined.
  6. Add the three whole eggs and the four egg yolks and whisk gently until smooth.
  7. Stir in the coconut milk until fully incorporated into a smooth custard mixture.
  8. Pour the custard evenly into the prepared ramekins.
  9. Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins to create a water bath.
  10. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the custards are set but still slightly soft in the center.
  11. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • Palm sugar can replace brown sugar for a deeper traditional flavor.
  • Add a pinch of ground cloves or cinnamon for extra warmth.
  • For a richer custard, substitute part of the coconut milk with coconut cream.
  • Watalappan tastes best chilled or at room temperature.
  • Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/watalappan-cardamom-coconut-custard/