Classic Baked Custard with Vanilla and Nutmeg Recipe

Introduction

This classic custard recipe is silky, smooth, and comforting. Perfect as a warm treat or chilled dessert, it’s a versatile base you can enjoy on its own or with fresh berries.

Ingredients

• 4 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg, for garnish
• Fresh berries, optional

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until bubbles form around the edges, then remove from heat.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until just blended, avoiding foam.
4. Step 4: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, stirring constantly to temper the eggs.
5. Step 5: Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Step 6: Pour the custard mixture into ramekins or a baking dish.
7. Step 7: Place the custard-filled dishes in a larger pan and add hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath.
8. Step 8: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and cool slightly before refrigerating if serving cold.
10. Step 10: Sprinkle with ground nutmeg and top with fresh berries if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use a double boiler to gently heat the milk and prevent scorching.
• For a richer custard, substitute half the milk with cream.
• Add a cinnamon stick to the milk while heating for extra warmth in flavor.
• Strain the custard mixture before baking for an ultra-smooth texture.

Storage

Store leftover custard covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a warm water bath or microwave on low power to avoid curdling. Best served chilled but can be enjoyed warm as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, but whole milk gives the best creamy texture. Using low-fat milk will result in a lighter custard that may be less rich.

How do I know when the custard is done baking?

The custard should be mostly set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the dish. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

Classic Baked Custard with Vanilla and Nutmeg Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 71 reviews

A classic and creamy baked custard made with whole milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla, subtly flavored with nutmeg. This comforting dessert is smooth and velvety, optionally topped with fresh berries for a delightful finish.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Custard Ingredients

• 4 cups whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground nutmeg, for sprinkling
• Fresh berries, optional for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the custard.
2. Heat Milk: Pour the whole milk into a small saucepan and gently heat it over medium heat until small bubbles form around the edges. Remove from heat immediately to avoid boiling.
3. Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until well blended, ensuring the mixture is smooth but not foamy.
4. Combine Milk and Egg Mixture: Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture in a slow, steady stream while stirring continuously to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
5. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract evenly throughout the custard mixture.
6. Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the custard mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins. Lightly sprinkle the surface with ground nutmeg as desired.
7. Bake Custard: Place the dish in a larger pan filled with hot water halfway up the sides of the custard dish to create a water bath. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the custard from the oven and water bath. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh berries for added flavor and color.

Notes

• Tempering the eggs by slowly adding hot milk helps prevent scrambling and ensures smooth custard.
• To check doneness, gently shake the dish; the custard should have a slight wobble in the center but not be liquid.
• Using a water bath during baking helps cook the custard evenly and prevents cracking.
• Fresh berries add freshness and a pop of color; choose your favorites such as blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.

Keywords: classic custard, baked custard recipe, creamy custard, vanilla custard dessert, simple custard, homemade custard