Creamy Baked Milk Custard (Golden Oven Custard)

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Introduction

This classic baked milk custard is a timeless dessert loved for its smooth, melt-in-the-mouth texture and beautifully caramelized golden surface. Made with simple pantry ingredients like milk, eggs, and sugar, this dessert is comforting, elegant, and perfect for any occasion. It sits somewhere between flan and pudding, firm enough to slice yet incredibly creamy inside.

Ingredients

  • 1 liter (4 cups) whole milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing dish)
  • 1 pinch salt
  • Optional: zest of 1 lemon or orange for aroma

Preparation Method

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  2. Grease a round or oval baking dish with butter
  3. Heat the milk in a saucepan until warm (not boiling)
  4. In a bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until pale
  5. Add cornstarch and salt, whisk until smooth
  6. Slowly pour warm milk into egg mixture while whisking
  7. Add vanilla (and citrus zest if using)
  8. Strain mixture for extra smooth texture
  9. Pour into prepared baking dish

Baking Instructions

  1. Place dish in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water (water bath)
  2. Bake for 45–55 minutes
  3. Top should be deep golden and slightly firm
  4. Center should jiggle gently
  5. Remove and cool at room temperature
  6. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours before slicing

Cooking Method Explained

  • Water bath prevents cracking
  • Slow baking ensures creaminess
  • Cornstarch adds structure without heaviness
  • Cooling time helps custard set perfectly

History

Baked custards date back to ancient Rome and became popular throughout Europe and North Africa. In many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern homes, milk custard is a staple dessert—simple, nourishing, and economical.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in calcium for bones
  • High-quality protein from eggs
  • Easily digestible
  • Comforting and satisfying
  • Can be reduced sugar for lighter version

Variations

  • Add cinnamon or nutmeg on top
  • Replace sugar with honey
  • Add coconut milk for tropical flavor
  • Sprinkle sugar and torch for brûlée finish

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve chilled or room temperature
  • Pair with fresh fruit
  • Dust with powdered sugar
  • Drizzle caramel or honey

Nutrition (Approx. per slice)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Calcium: High

Why People Love It

  • Minimal ingredients
  • Foolproof recipe
  • Creamy yet sliceable
  • Budget-friendly
  • Perfect for all ages

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Milk Custard is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical. With its golden top, velvety interior, and nostalgic flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll return to again and again.

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