Description
This fail-proof egg custard recipe offers a smooth, creamy dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Rich with whole milk and subtly sweetened with sugar and vanilla, the custard is baked gently in a water bath for a silky texture and garnished with warm, fragrant nutmeg.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the custard evenly.
- Warm the Milk Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warm but not boiling; this helps dissolve the sugar and prepares the milk for combining with eggs.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until completely combined and slightly frothy, which enhances the custard’s texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the beaten eggs while whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking prematurely or curdling.
- Prepare Ramekins: Pour the custard mixture evenly into ramekins. Place the ramekins in a deep baking dish, then carefully add hot water to the dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins, creating a water bath that ensures gentle and even baking.
- Bake: Bake the custards in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow the custard to cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg over each custard for a warm, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Use fresh whole milk for the creamiest texture.
- Do not let the milk boil; it should be warm to prevent curdling.
- Whisking the egg mixture before boiling liquid addition is crucial to avoid scrambling.
- The water bath ensures gentle cooking to achieve the perfect silky custard.
- Allow custard to cool slightly before serving to improve flavor and texture.
