Old-Fashioned Baked Custard Pudding

Recipe Details

• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk (warm)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Ground nutmeg (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place six ramekins in a deep baking dish or roasting pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually whisk in the warm milk (not hot), combining until creamy and well blended.
4. Pour the custard evenly into each ramekin. Sprinkle the tops lightly with ground nutmeg.
5. Create a water bath by pouring hot water into the baking dish around the ramekins, halfway up the sides.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the centers are just set (a knife inserted should come out clean).
7. Remove from oven and carefully lift ramekins from water. Let cool. Serve warm or chilled.

Tips for Success

• Warm the milk gently — don’t boil it — to avoid cooking the eggs prematurely.
• Use a fine strainer for ultra-smooth custard texture before pouring into ramekins.
• For a richer version, replace ½ cup of milk with heavy cream.

Storage

Once cooled, cover ramekins with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Do not freeze.