Spanish leche frita in an air fryer, the famous easter treat!

Name: Spanish leche frita in an air fryer, the famous easter treat!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 h 12 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: En
Ingredients: 2+1/8 cups milk (1+2/3 cups + 1/2 cup); 1 lemon peel (organic); 1 orange peel (organic); 1 cinnamon stick; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence; 2/3 cup cornstarch; 3 tablespoons flour; 2 eggs; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

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Dessert

Very Easy

12 h 12 m

843 Kcal

Who can resist a good Spanish leche frita, with its smooth texture, that unmistakable aroma of cinnamon and lemon, and the usual flavor? Although it is an Easter classic, the truth is that this recipe can be enjoyed at any time of the year. It takes us back to grandma's kitchen, to the after-dinner conversations with cousins and siblings, to those days when the most special thing was to share a homemade sweet. This time, we propose you to prepare it in Air fryer. The result is just as tasty, with less oil and without giving up that golden layer we love so much. Ready? 3, 2, 1... Let's get to work! Petitchef shows you how to do it step by step.

Materials

Large bowl
Saucepan with lid
Parchment paper
Rectangular pan
Oil sprayer

Preparation

Preparation5 min

Waiting time12 hours

Cook time7 min

In a saucepan, place 1+2/3 cup milk together with the peel of an orange, the peel of a lemon (only the colored part, without any white), a cinnamon stick, sugar and vanilla extract. Bring to the boil.
When it comes to a boil, remove from the heat, cover and allow to infuse for 10 minutes.
Dissolve the cornstarch in the remaining 1/2 cup milk, stirring well with a whisk until a homogeneous, lump-free mixture is obtained.
Remove the cinnamon and the skins from the infused milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and add the cornstarch mixture little by little, stirring constantly with the whisk. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Pour the cream into a square or rectangular pan lined with cling film. Smooth the surface with a spatula and cover with another piece of cling film, the film must be in contact with the cream. Allow to cool at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
Carefully unmold and cut into cubes or rectangles, as desired. To facilitate cutting, use a lightly greased or moistened knife.
Dredge each piece in flour.
Immediately dip in beaten egg, making sure to coat all sides.
Place the pieces in the basket of the air fryer lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them for even cooking.
Spray lightly with oil spray and cook in air fry mode at 350°F/180ºC for 7 minutes, until golden brown.
Mix sugar with ground cinnamon in a bowl and coat the pieces while they are still hot.
Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!

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FAQ ❓

Does the milk fried in an air fryer look like the traditional one?

Yes, although the outer texture changes slightly. The inside remains creamy and soft, and the golden batter has a lighter touch as there is hardly any oil in it. It is a lighter version but just as tasty.

Is it possible to make leche frita without frying in oil?

Yes, the air fryer allows you to prepare fried milk with very little oil, simply by spraying it before cooking. This way you get a perfect finish without the need to fry in abundant oil.

How long does the fried milk have to be cooled before cooking?

It should first be cooled to room temperature and then rest in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, although ideally it should be left overnight. This ensures that the cream sets well and can be easily cut.

How to prevent the fried milk from breaking when cut?

It is important to let it cool completely and use a slightly greased or wet knife. This ensures clean cuts without the dough sticking together or falling apart.

What to serve with the air fryer fried milk?

You can serve it as is, sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon, or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, some fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. It also goes very well with applesauce or red fruit jam.

What other ingredients can be used to infuse the milk?

In addition to cinnamon, lemon or orange peel and vanilla, you can experiment with star anise, cloves or even a cardamom pod to give it a different touch. But use spices sparingly so as not to mask the classic flavor.

Can plant-based milk be used to make fried milk in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use plant-based beverages such as almond, soy or oat beverages. The important thing is that they are without added sugars and that they have a creamy texture. The result may vary slightly, but it is a good option for those who do not consume dairy products.