Classic Baked Custard with Vanilla and Nutmeg Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the custard.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract evenly throughout the custard mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the custard mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins. Lightly sprinkle the surface with ground nutmeg as desired.
- 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.
- 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
