Chico Balanceado (Brazilian Layered Custard and Meringue Dessert)

Chico Balanceado (Brazilian Layered Custard and Meringue Dessert)

Also known regionally as “boneco de botas” or “Manezinho Araújo”

What Is Chico Balanceado?

Chico Balanceado is a nostalgic Brazilian dessert featuring three main layers:

1. A luscious vanilla egg custard made from milk and cornstarch.

2. A golden caramel syrup that lines the base of the dish.

3. A fluffy meringue topping, baked until golden.

This dessert is light yet satisfying, with a beautiful contrast of textures: smooth custard, sticky caramel, and airy meringue. Best served chilled for a refreshing treat.

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Ingredients

For the Custard Cream:

• 1.5 liters (6 ⅓ cups) whole milk

• 5 large egg yolks (reserve the whites for the meringue)

• 6 tablespoons sugar

• 6 tablespoons cornstarch (e.g., Maizena)

• 3 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or essence

For the Caramel:

• 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar

• 1 cup (240ml) water

For the Meringue Topping:

• 5 large egg whites

• 6 tablespoons sugar

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Caramel Base

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan or directly in a baking dish (metal or glass), add 1½ cups of sugar.

2. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns into a deep amber caramel.

3. Carefully add 1 cup of water (stand back—it may bubble vigorously).

4. Continue cooking until the caramel dissolves into a syrupy consistency, about 5–8 minutes.

5. Pour or leave the caramel in the baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to cool and firm slightly.

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Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard

1. In a large bowl, separate the eggs, placing the whites in a clean mixing bowl and the yolks in a medium saucepan.

2. Sift or strain the egg yolks to remove the membrane (this reduces eggy flavor).

3. To the yolks, add:

   • 1.5 liters of milk

   • 6 tablespoons sugar

   • 6 tablespoons cornstarch

   • 3 teaspoons vanilla

4. Mix well until smooth and lump-free.

5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon.

6. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 10–15 minutes).

7. Pour the hot custard over the cooled caramel in the baking dish and smooth the top. Set aside while you prepare the meringue.

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Step 3: Prepare the Meringue

1. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the 5 egg whites with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.

2. Gradually add the 6 tablespoons sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.

3. Spread the meringue evenly over the custard layer. Use a spatula or spoon to make decorative swirls, if desired.

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Step 4: Bake the Dessert

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC (350ºF).

2. Bake the assembled dessert for 25–30 minutes, or until the meringue is firm and lightly golden.

3. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.

4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow the layers to set and meld.

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️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled directly from the dish.

• Spoon carefully to get all three layers in each serving: caramel, custard, and meringue.

• For an elegant presentation, serve in glass dessert cups.

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Tips and Variations

• No-Waste Tip: Use the leftover eggshells to enrich your garden soil!

• Flavor Boost: Add a strip of lemon or orange zest to the custard as it cooks for a citrusy twist.

• Extra Smooth Custard: Strain the hot custard before pouring it over the caramel for a silkier finish.

• Individual Servings: Prepare the dessert in ramekins or small glass cups for personal portions.

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️ Storage

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Not suitable for freezing, as meringue can lose its texture when thawed.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love It

Chico Balanceado is:

• Creamy, comforting, and light

• Made with pantry staples

• A piece of Brazilian culinary heritage

• Beautifully layered and crowd-pleasing

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Enjoy this time-honored treat and bring a taste of Brazilian tradition to your table. If your grandmother used to make this dessert, now you can too—with the same love, flavor, and simplicity.