Why You’ll Love Easy Egg Custard Recipe
This egg custard is beloved for its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and minimal ingredient list. It’s perfect for when you want a homemade dessert that feels elegant yet is incredibly simple to make — ideal for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
5 large eggs
½ cup sugar
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
4 cups 2% or whole milk
Ground nutmeg for topping
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
-
In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just before it begins to simmer — do not boil.
-
Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture in a steady stream while whisking to prevent the eggs from cooking. Whisk for another minute after combining.
-
Pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle ground nutmeg on top if desired.
-
Place the custard dish inside a larger baking pan and add hot water around it to form a water bath (about 1 inch deep).
-
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the custard slightly jiggles.
-
Let cool slightly before serving warm, or chill in the refrigerator for a cold dessert.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: about 50 minutes
Total time: approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes
Variations
• Dairy-free: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk instead of dairy milk.
• Less sweet: Reduce the amount of sugar or try a sugar substitute.
• Flavor twists: Add a splash of almond extract or a bit of cinnamon along with the nutmeg.
• Toppings: Serve with fresh fruit, caramel drizzle, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage/Reheating
• Refrigerator: Store custard in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days once cooled.
• Freezer: This custard can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container, though texture may change slightly.
• Reheating: Warm gently in the microwave or oven until just heated through; avoid overheating to keep a smooth texture.
FAQs
What is egg custard?
Egg custard is a baked dessert made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla that results in a smooth and creamy texture.
Can I make this without a water bath?
Yes, but a water bath helps cook the custard gently and evenly without curdling.
Can I use low-fat milk?
You can, but whole or 2% milk gives a creamier texture.
Why did my custard curdle?
Overheating or baking too long can cause curdling; bake gently and watch the timing.
Is nutmeg required?
No, nutmeg is optional and adds a warm spice note.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can this be served cold?
Absolutely — many people prefer egg custard chilled.
Can I substitute vanilla extract?
You can experiment with almond extract or other flavorings, but vanilla is classic.
How do I know when it’s done?
The center should jiggle slightly and a knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish with a water bath.
Conclusion
This easy egg custard recipe is a classic dessert that brings creamy, nostalgic flavor with minimal effort. With basic pantry ingredients and an oven, you can create a smooth and comforting treat perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions. Enjoy it plain, with fruit or your favorite toppings.
