Are you searching for a simple yet elegant dessert to impress your guests this holiday season? Look no further! This creamy eggnog custard recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers maximum flavor and festive cheer. It's the perfect blend of comforting and sophisticated, making it an ideal addition to your holiday table or a cozy night in. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals (relatively!), or quick dinner ideas – though it's more of a delightful dessert!
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup eggnog (choose your favorite brand!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and frothy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy custard. Don't rush this part; take your time to incorporate air.
Step 2: Spice it Up
Add the ground nutmeg and cinnamon to the egg mixture. Stir gently to combine the spices evenly throughout. The warm spices complement the eggnog beautifully.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggnog and Cream
Gradually pour in the eggnog while continuously whisking. This prevents the eggs from curdling. Then, gently stir in the heavy cream. The heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the final product.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pour the custard mixture into oven-safe ramekins or a single baking dish. Place the ramekins in a larger baking dish and pour enough hot water into the larger dish to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins (this creates a bain-marie, ensuring even cooking and preventing cracking).
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your ramekins.
Step 5: Cool and Chill
Carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them 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.
Tips for Eggnog Custard Success:
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will yield a smoother, more stable custard.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry, rubbery custard. A slight jiggle in the center is perfectly fine.
- Bain-marie is key: The water bath helps to prevent curdling and ensures even cooking.
- Get creative with toppings: A sprinkle of nutmeg, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce are all delicious additions.
Variations:
- Spiced Eggnog Custard: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth.
- Boozy Eggnog Custard: For an adult treat, add a shot of rum or bourbon to the custard mixture.
- Coffee Eggnog Custard: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee granules for a mocha-inspired twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 18-20g
- Protein: Approximately 6-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This delightful eggnog custard is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's the perfect homemade cooking project for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary journey. Enjoy this delicious dish and happy baking!