Are you craving a comforting, creamy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Amish Baked Custard recipe! This classic dessert is incredibly smooth, rich, and utterly delicious – a perfect ending to any meal. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, offering a straightforward approach to homemade cooking and creating a truly delightful healthy meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or individual ramekins. This simple step ensures your custard won't stick.
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Whisk Together: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and salt until well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved. Make sure there are no visible egg whites remaining; this ensures a smooth texture.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Gradually whisk in the milk and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly incorporated. If using, gently stir in the heavy cream. This slow addition prevents the eggs from curdling.
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Bake: Carefully pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish. Place the dish in a larger baking pan. Pour enough hot water into the larger pan to come about halfway up the sides of the smaller dish (this creates a water bath, preventing the custard from cracking).
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Baking Time: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the custard is set around the edges and the center is just slightly jiggly. Overbaking will result in a dry custard.
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Cool & Chill: Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the custard to fully set. This step is crucial for developing the best flavor and texture.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve your chilled Amish Baked Custard. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce – or simply enjoy its delightful simplicity!
Tips for the Best Amish Baked Custard:
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will create a richer, smoother custard.
- Don't overbake: A slightly jiggly center is perfectly fine – it will set further as it cools.
- The water bath is key: It ensures even cooking and prevents cracking.
- Let it chill: Refrigerating allows the flavors to develop fully.
Variations:
- Add flavor: Experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm spice note.
- Sweeten to taste: Adjust the sugar according to your preference.
- Use different milk: Try using half-and-half or even heavy cream for a richer custard, though this will increase the calorie and fat content.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without optional heavy cream):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
This Amish Baked Custard recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It’s a versatile and satisfying homemade cooking project that yields delicious dishes perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy perfection!