Baba de Camelo, a delectable Portuguese sweet dessert, showcases the art of caramelising sweetened condensed milk to create a creamy, caramel-infused delight. Dive into the authentic flavours of Portugal with this traditional treat, now enriched with eggs and adorned with almonds.

Baba de Camelo: Where creamy caramel meets the heart of Portugal, and every spoonful is a sweet journey into traditions.

Historical Origins:

Baba de Camelo, also known as “Camel’s Drool,” is a traditional Portuguese sweet dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. Its name, “Baba de Camelo,” is playful and whimsical, referring to the dessert’s smooth and creamy texture that somewhat resembles drool. The exact origin of Baba de Camelo is not well-documented, but it has become an iconic sweet treat in Portuguese cuisine, often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.

Caramelisation Tradition:

One of the key elements of Baba de Camelo is the caramelisation of sweetened condensed milk or Dulce De Leche. This process involves simmering the unopened can of condensed milk for several hours until it transforms into a luscious caramel-like substance. Caramelisation is a technique that has deep roots in Portuguese cooking, and it’s used in various desserts and confections.

Family and Festivities:

Baba de Camelo is a dessert that often brings families and friends together. It’s a popular choice for special occasions, holidays, and gatherings. It’s common to see Baba de Camelo served at Portuguese celebrations like weddings, birthdays, and religious festivals.

Variations and Additions:

While the classic Baba de Camelo consists of caramelised condensed milk and eggs, some variations may incorporate other ingredients such as vanilla extract or even a touch of liqueur for added flavuor.

Almonds, as mentioned earlier, are a popular choice for garnishing, providing a delightful crunch and enhancing the dessert’s presentation.

Portuguese Sweet Dessert Heritage:

Portugal boasts a rich dessert heritage, with a wide array of sweet treats and pastries unique to the country. Baba de Camelo is just one example of Portugal’s sweet culinary traditions. Other famous Portuguese desserts include Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), Arroz Doce (rice pudding), and Queijadas (cheesecakes), each with its own regional variations.

Regional Variations:

Like many traditional dishes, Baba de Camelo may have regional variations within Portugal. Different regions may add their own twist to the recipe, incorporating local ingredients or traditions.

Cultural Significance:

Beyond its delicious taste, Baba de Camelo holds cultural significance in Portugal, reflecting the importance of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing meals together.

Whether enjoyed as a simple homemade dessert or served at festive gatherings, Baba de Camelo represents the heartwarming spirit of Portuguese cuisine and hospitality. It’s a sweet reminder of the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Baba de Camelo-Portuguese Caramel Cream Delight

Baba de Camelo a Portuguese dessert of caramelising sweetened condensed milk and eggs.

5 from 3 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Mediterranean, Portuguese

Servings 6 people

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• 1 A medium-sized saucepan
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Whisk
• 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
• 6 Dessert glasses or serving dishes

Ingredients

  

• 1 can  Sweetened condensed milk 400g
• 4 large eggs Room temperature
• Almonds for decorating or grind cookie

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Caramelized Sweetened Condensed Milk
• Place the unopened can of sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan filled with water, ensuring that the can is fully submerged.
• Bring the water to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer.
• Allow the can to simmer in the water for 3 hours. Ensure that the can remains fully submerged throughout the process.
• After 3 hours, carefully remove the can from the water using tongs. Allow it to cool completely before opening.
• Prepare the Caramel Cream Mixture
• Once the can has cooled, open it and pour the caramelised sweetened condensed milk into a mixing bowl.
• Whisk the Mixture
• Using a whisk, beat the caramelised condensed milk until it becomes smooth and creamy.
• Add Eggs
• In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until well beaten.
• Gradually fold the beaten eggs into the creamy caramel mixture until fully incorporated.
•  Fill the Serving Dishe
• Carefully ladle the creamy caramel and egg mixture into dessert glasses or serving dishes.
• Decorate with Almonds or grind cookies.
• Garnish each serving with almonds or grind cookies, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Notes

• Ensure the can of sweetened condensed milk remains fully submerged during the entire caramelization process to prevent it from bursting or overheating.
• Use oven mitts or tongs to handle the hot can after caramelization.
• You can use a can of DULCE DE LECHE. It is condensed milk already caramelised. If you intend to use a can of Caramel, take note that Caramel is made with water and Dulce De Leche with milk.

Keyword baba de camelo, dessert, portuguese dessert

Did you make this recipe?

Lovely. Now let me know how you liked it and how much of a cheat it was. Tag @olga.amara on Instagram and hashtag #flightforfood.

While I have you here, may I suggest few you try next:

• Portuguese Piri-Piri
• Steak Perfection

Until next time. Keep following and commenting.