Fail-proof egg custard is the perfect easy dessert that will impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, you can have a decadent custard ready in under an hour. The key is gently heating the milk and slowly incorporating it into the egg mixture to avoid scrambling. Follow these helpful tips for custard that comes out perfect every time.
What Milk Should I Use for Custard?
I recommend using whole milk or 2% milk for the creamiest, richest custard. The higher fat content helps create that quintessential silky texture. Stay away from skim or 1% milk – it just won’t have enough fat. You can use dairy or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk too. Just avoid any sweetened vanilla milks, or your custard will be overly sweet.
How Hot Should the Milk Be for Custard?
Getting the milk to just the right temp before mixing it with the eggs is crucial. I heat the milk to 180°F on the stove while whisking the egg mixture in a separate bowl. Then I verrrry slowly stream the hot milk into the eggs while whisking constantly. This tempering prevents the eggs from scrambling.
Should I Strain My Custard?
If you notice any bits of cooked egg in your custard mixture after adding the hot milk, then yes – strain it! Passing the liquid through a fine mesh sieve helps ensure the final texture comes out perfectly smooth.
How Do I Prevent My Custard from Cracking?
Baking custard in a water bath is the secret ingredient to keeping it from overcooking around the edges. Just place your custard dish inside a larger pan filled about an inch deep with hot water before popping it in the oven. The water insulates it. Check frequently, and once a knife inserted comes out clean, it’s done!
Let me know if you have any other questions about making fail-proof egg custard at home! It’s one of my favorite comforting desserts.
Fail-Proof Egg Custard Recipe
Servings: 9
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of 2% or whole milk
- 5 large eggs
- ½ cup of sugar
- 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- Nutmeg (optional for topping)
Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat these ingredients together thoroughly.
- Warm the milk in a small saucepan until it reaches approximately 180 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s hot but not boiling.
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to blend well. Continue whisking for an additional minute after full incorporation.
- Carefully pour this mixture into your greased baking dish. If you choose, sprinkle the top with nutmeg for added flavor.
- Take a larger baking dish and fill it with about 1 inch of water. Place your custard dish inside, being cautious to avoid water splashing.
- Bake the custard in your preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. The custard is ready when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, but it should still jiggle slightly. Be mindful not to overbake to prevent curdling.
- This delicious custard can be served either warm or chilled. Enhance it with toppings like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or extra spices. Remember to refrigerate any leftovers.
This easy egg custard recipe, perfect for dessert lovers, combines simple ingredients to create a delightful treat. Follow these steps for a fail-proof preparation every time!
