Here’s a simple and classic baked custard recipe for you:
### Classic Baked Custard
#### Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Nutmeg (optional, for sprinkling on top)
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. **Prepare the Custard Mixture:**
– In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling. You should see small bubbles forming around the edges.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
– Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from cooking.
3. **Strain the Mixture:**
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or another bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg and ensure a smooth custard.
4. **Pour into Ramekins:**
Pour the custard mixture evenly into 6 ramekins. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish.
5. **Create a Water Bath:**
Fill the baking dish with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath helps the custard cook evenly and prevents it from cracking.
6. **Bake:**
Carefully transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. **Cool:**
Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, you can refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight.
8. **Serve:**
Sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg before serving, if desired. Enjoy your classic baked custard!
Let me know if you need any variations or additional tips!