This baked milk custard is a timeless dessert that blends simplicity with elegance. With just a few ingredients—milk, eggs, sugar, and a touch of spice—you create a silky, gently set custard that’s both comforting and refined. The top develops a delicate golden crust, while the inside remains creamy and smooth. It’s the kind of dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, perfect for quiet evenings or festive gatherings.
What makes this custard special is its adaptability. You can infuse it with therapeutic ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, or turmeric, use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version, or sweeten it naturally with honey or jaggery. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s a dessert that invites creativity and connection.
🧾 INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup sugar (or ⅓ cup honey or jaggery for natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (or ½ tsp cardamom powder for cultural flair)
- Pinch of salt
- Optional spices: ¼ tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, or turmeric
- Optional garnish: crushed pistachios, saffron strands, or toasted coconut
👨🍳 INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or oil. You can also use individual ramekins for single servings.
2. Warm the Milk
In a saucepan, gently heat the milk over low heat until warm but not boiling. This helps the custard set evenly and prevents curdling. If using spices like cinnamon or cardamom, add them now to infuse the milk.
3. Whisk the Eggs & Sugar
In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add sugar (or honey/jaggery) and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is pale and slightly frothy. Stir in vanilla extract or your chosen flavoring.
4. Combine Milk & Egg Mixture
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from cooking. This step is crucial for a smooth custard texture.
5. Strain (Optional but Recommended)
For an ultra-smooth custard, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into your prepared baking dish. This removes any cooked egg bits or spice residue.
6. Bake in a Water Bath
Place the baking dish in a larger pan filled halfway with hot water. This gentle baking method (bain-marie) ensures even cooking and prevents cracking. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
7. Cool & Garnish
Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour if serving cold. Garnish with crushed nuts, saffron, or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
🧘♀️ WELLNESS NOTES:
- Therapeutic Add-ins: Turmeric adds anti-inflammatory benefits and a golden hue; cardamom aids digestion.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a diabetic-friendly version.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Almond, oat, or coconut milk work beautifully.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of collagen or protein powder to the milk before heating.