Classic Ponche Crème with Whipped Cream

Classic Ponche Crème with Whipped Cream

A rich and aromatic Trinidadian holiday drink, reminiscent of eggnog, but made with sweetened condensed and evaporated milk for a thicker, spiced profile. Enhanced with rum and tonka bean.

2h 30mIntermediate8 servings

Equipment

medium saucepan
large heat-proof bowl
whisk
blender
stand mixer*
punch glasses or highball glasses

* optional

Ingredients

8 servings

For the Ponche Crème

  • 2 sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 evaporated milk
  • 5 large eggs
  • 180 ml good-quality rum
  • 15 ml angostura bitters
  • 1 g ground nutmeg
  • 1 g finely grated tonka bean
  • 1 g ground cloves

For Serving

  • 180 ml heavy cream
  • 13 g granulated sugar
  • 1 ml vanilla extract
  • ice, as needed
  • ground cinnamon, for garnish

Nutrition (per serving)

619
Calories
18g
Protein
66g
Carbs
26g
Fat
0g
Fiber
57g
Sugar
268mg
Sodium

Method

01

In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it just begins to simmer, about 3-4 minutes. Do not boil.

4mLook for: Small bubbles forming around the edges.
02

In a large, heat-proof bowl, whisk the eggs vigorously until light and frothy, about 1 minute.

1mLook for: Eggs are pale and increased in volume
03

Gradually stream the warm milk mixture into the whisked eggs, whisking constantly. Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, whisking constantly, until it thickens slightly.

4mLook for: Mixture coats the back of a spoon.
04

Transfer the thickened mixture to a blender. Add the rum, Angostura bitters, nutmeg, and tonka bean (or ground cloves). Blend for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the mixture is frothy.

1mLook for: Mixture is well combined and slightly foamy.
05

Pour the ponche crème into a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely chilled.

2hLook for: Thickened, opaque liquid.
06

In a chilled bowl, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, whip until stiff peaks form, about 2 to 4 minutes.

4mLook for: Stiff peaks form
07

Serve the chilled ponche crème in punch or highball glasses filled with ice. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a dusting of ground cinnamon, if desired.

Chef's Notes

  • Always use high-quality rum for the best flavor.
  • For a richer flavor, toast the spices lightly before adding to the blender.
  • If you don't have tonka beans, a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg and cloves or mixed spice essence work as great alternatives.

Storage

Refrigerator: 3 daysStore in an airtight container.

Reheating: Not recommended. Serve chilled.

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