This baked milk custard is a silky, comforting dessert that bridges simplicity with elegance. With a creamy interior and a golden, caramelized top, it’s reminiscent of classic flan or crème brûlée but with a rustic charm. The custard is gently baked until set, developing a subtle wobble and a rich, velvety texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon or black pepper adds warmth and depth, making each spoonful a delicate balance of sweetness and spice.
Served warm or chilled, this dish is perfect for quiet evenings, festive dinners, or as a soothing treat during cooler months. It’s made with pantry staples—milk, eggs, sugar—and requires minimal effort, yet the result is indulgent and satisfying. The spoon glides through the custard like silk, and the caramelized top adds a gentle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon or freshly ground black pepper (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing the dish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Lightly grease a glass or ceramic baking dish with butter. This helps prevent sticking and adds a subtle richness to the edges of the custard.
Step 2: Warm the Milk In a saucepan, gently heat the milk over medium-low heat until it’s warm but not boiling. This step helps the custard set more evenly and reduces baking time. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is pale.
Step 4: Combine and Strain Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, strain the mixture through a fine sieve into another bowl or directly into the prepared baking dish. This ensures a silky texture by removing any egg solids or bubbles.
Step 5: Bake Gently Place the baking dish in a larger roasting pan and fill the pan with hot water halfway up the sides of the custard dish—this water bath (bain-marie) helps the custard cook evenly and prevents cracking. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Step 6: Caramelize the Top Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle a light layer of ground cinnamon or black pepper over the top. For a deeper caramelized crust, you can place the dish under a broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Serve warm for a cozy dessert or chill for a firmer texture. Spoon into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of honey, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh fruit if desired.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add orange or lemon zest to the milk for a citrusy twist.
- Infuse the milk with cardamom pods or a cinnamon stick for aromatic depth.
- Replace sugar with jaggery or coconut sugar for a more earthy flavor.
- For a richer custard, substitute half the milk with cream.