This beautifully golden, silky dessert you see in the image is a classic baked custard—simple, comforting, and incredibly creamy. It melts in the mouth with a lightly caramelized top and a smooth, delicate interior. Made with basic pantry ingredients, this timeless dessert is loved across cultures and generations.
Introduction
Baked custard is one of the oldest and most beloved desserts in the world. With its soft, pudding-like texture and gentle sweetness, it is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or a quiet evening treat. This recipe delivers a thick, creamy custard with a lightly browned top, just like the one in the picture—no crust, no gelatin, just pure comfort.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups whole milk (full-fat for best creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for the top
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs gently until combined (do not overbeat).
- Add sugar and salt, whisk until dissolved.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking gently to avoid bubbles.
- Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve for an extra-smooth texture.
- Pour the custard into a greased glass or ceramic baking dish.
- Sprinkle nutmeg or cinnamon on top if desired.
- Place the dish in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water (water bath).
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until the center is just set but slightly jiggly.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before slicing.
Baking Method Explained
- Water bath (bain-marie): Prevents cracking and ensures even cooking
- Low temperature: Keeps the custard creamy instead of rubbery
- Resting time: Allows the custard to fully set and develop flavor
History of Baked Custard
Custards date back to ancient Rome, where eggs and milk were first combined into sweet and savory dishes. Over centuries, baked custards became popular in European and Middle Eastern kitchens. Today, variations exist worldwide—from flan to crème caramel—yet the baked custard remains the purest form.
Benefits
- High in protein from eggs
- Rich in calcium from milk
- Gentle on digestion
- Naturally gluten-free
- Comforting and satisfying
Formation & Texture
- Eggs thicken the milk gently when heated
- Sugar adds sweetness and helps browning
- Milk provides creaminess
- Butter adds richness and smooth mouthfeel
The result is a firm yet silky custard that slices cleanly, just like the image.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature
- Add caramel sauce or honey drizzle
- Pair with fresh berries or fruit compote
- Enjoy with tea or coffee
Nutritional Value (Approx. per slice)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Calcium: High
Why People Love This Dessert
- Simple ingredients
- No flour, no gelatin
- Creamy and comforting
- Budget-friendly
- Perfect for all ages
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Custard Dessert is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly magical. With its smooth interior and golden top, it’s a dessert that never goes out of style. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy every custard lover.
If you want:
- caramel version
- no-oven version
- condensed milk version
Just tell me