Description
Make this smooth, creamy baked custard with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla. This easy comfort dessert bakes in about an hour, resulting in a silky texture.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Fresh berries for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Set a wire rack near your workspace.
- Warm milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until small bubbles form at the edges. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, and salt until smooth but not foamy.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. Stir in vanilla.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a 1½-quart round baking dish. Sprinkle nutmeg evenly on top.
- Place the baking dish inside a larger pan. Pour hot water into the outer pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the custard dish.
- Carefully transfer to the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean and the custard jiggles slightly.
- Remove the custard dish from the water bath immediately and cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until thoroughly chilled.
- Serve cold, plain or with fresh berries on top.
Notes
- Baking in a water bath ensures the custard cooks evenly and stays creamy.
- Do not allow the egg mixture to become foamy when whisking.
- Chill completely for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking (Water Bath)
- Cuisine: American