Best Easy Vanilla Custard Recipe

Smooth, velvety vanilla custard with a delicate, creamy texture is a timeless, elegant family dessert. This simple, classic preparation showcases pure vanilla flavor at its finest.

Cook 50 min Difficulty NORMAL 225 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • heavy cream 0.5 cups
  • large eggs 4 pieces
  • egg yolks 2 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • granulated sugar 0.5 cups
  • pure vanilla extract 2 tsp
  • salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 24 g 43%
Protein 7 g 13%
Fat 11 g 44%
Serving size 140g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and set a kettle of water to boil for a water bath.

  2. 2

    In a medium saucepan, heat whole milk and heavy cream over medium-low heat until steaming, not boiling (small bubbles around the edge), then remove from heat.

  3. 3

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt until combined and slightly thickened, but not frothy.

  4. 4

    Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Stir in pure vanilla extract.

  5. 5

    Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup, then divide evenly among 6 ramekins placed in a roasting pan.

  6. 6

    Pour hot water into the pan until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Bake for 35–40 minutes until custards are just set around the edges but still slightly wobbly in the center.

  7. 7

    Remove ramekins from the water bath promptly and cool to room temperature. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving for the creamiest texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient that gives vanilla custard its rich, classic flavor?
The key ingredient for flavor in this recipe is pure vanilla extract, which brings out the signature delicate, aromatic quality of a true vanilla custard. Combined with a creamy base of milk, cream, eggs, and sugar, the vanilla creates a perfectly balanced and indulgent dessert.
Q. How can I avoid scrambling the eggs when making the custard?
To prevent scrambling, always gradually pour the hot milk and cream into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This method, called tempering, gently raises the temperature of the eggs and ensures a smooth, velvety texture in your custard.
Q. Why is a water bath used when baking custard?
A water bath provides gentle, even heat and prevents the custard from cooking too quickly or forming curdles. This careful temperature control results in a delicate, creamy, and smooth custard without cracks or rubbery texture.
Q. How many calories are in each serving, and what’s the carb-to-protein ratio?
Each 140g serving contains approximately 225 kcal, with 24g carbohydrates (43% of calories) and 7g protein (13% of calories). This makes for a dessert that offers moderate carbs and some protein, with a balanced richness.
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