Crema de fruta

Crema de Fruta is a traditional Filipino dessert that is typically served during special occasions and holidays. It is a layered dessert that consists of sponge cake, custard, a layer of fruit cocktail, and topped with gelatin.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Crema de Fruta are:

• Sponge cake - This is the base layer of the dessert. It is a light and airy cake that absorbs the flavors of the other layers well.
• Custard - This is the second layer of the dessert. It is a creamy and sweet mixture made from milk, sugar, and egg yolks.
• Fruit cocktail - This is the third layer of the dessert. It is a mixture of different fruits that are canned in syrup. The most common fruits used are peaches, pears, pineapples, and cherries.
• Gelatin - This is the top layer of the dessert. It is a clear and sweet jelly that is made from animal collagen.

Preparation

The preparation of Crema de Fruta involves several steps. First, the sponge cake is baked and allowed to cool. Then, the custard is prepared by heating milk, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan until it thickens. The fruit cocktail is then drained and arranged on top of the custard. Finally, the gelatin is prepared according to the package instructions and poured over the fruit cocktail. The dessert is then refrigerated until the gelatin sets.

Variations

There are several variations of Crema de Fruta. Some recipes use graham crackers instead of sponge cake for the base layer. Others use fresh fruits instead of canned fruit cocktail. There are also versions that add a layer of whipped cream on top of the gelatin.

Cultural Significance

Crema de Fruta is a popular dessert in the Philippines, especially during the Christmas season. It is often served at family gatherings and parties. The dessert is also commonly found in local bakeries and dessert shops.