Description
This fail-proof egg custard recipe delivers a smooth, creamy, and delicate dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Crafted with simple ingredients like whole milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, the custard is baked gently in a water bath to ensure a silky texture without curdling. Finished with a light garnish of ground nutmeg, this classic custard is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Garnish
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for the custard once the mixture is prepared.
- Warm the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is warm but not boiling. This helps dissolve the sugar and prepares the milk for blending with the eggs.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and slightly frothy. This helps ensure a smooth custard texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Slowly and gradually add the warm milk mixture to the eggs while whisking constantly. This tempering step prevents the eggs from cooking prematurely and curdling.
- Prepare Ramekins: Pour the custard mixture evenly into individual ramekins. Arrange the ramekins in a deep baking dish and carefully pour hot water into the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins, creating a water bath to ensure even, gentle cooking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow the custards to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle a light dusting of ground nutmeg on top for a warm aromatic finish.
Notes
- Be careful not to boil the milk to prevent curdling the custard later.
- Whisk the eggs gently to avoid incorporating too much air for a smooth texture.
- The water bath is essential for evenly distributing heat and preventing cracking or overcooking.
- You can serve the custard warm or chilled according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American