Baked Caramel Custard
A creamy baked caramel custard with a rich caramel topping, perfect for dessert lovers. Smooth, sweet, and indulgent, ideal for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Choose a heatproof 1 1/2-quart casserole or baking dish.
- Place sugar and water into the dish and heat on High for 3 to 4 minutes until the sugar melts and starts to turn brown.
- Watch carefully and turn the dish to coat evenly with the caramel.
- Let the caramel coating cool before pouring in the custard.
- In a separate bowl, beat the sweetened condensed milk, milk, eggs, and vanilla together.
- Pour the custard mixture into the caramelized dish.
- Set the dish into a larger dish containing water so that the water reaches 1 inch up the side of the custard dish.
- Cook on Medium-high for 15 to 18 minutes until a knife inserted comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a perfectly smooth custard, ensure the eggs are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the whole milk with almond or coconut milk. For an extra flavor twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the custard mixture. Be cautious while making the caramel; it can burn quickly if not monitored.
Serving Suggestions
Baked caramel custard is delightful on its own but can also be served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Twila'S Pecan Pie for a comforting dessert spread. Consider dusting with cocoa powder or drizzling with chocolate sauce for a decadent touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can serve it cold, which enhances the flavors further.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Caramel Custard contains roughly 492 calories, with 5g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly, so choose a milk that complements the overall taste you desire.
What should I do if my caramel hardens before pouring in the custard?
If the caramel hardens, you can gently reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water until it melts again. Make sure to keep stirring to achieve a smooth consistency before pouring in the custard mixture.
Can I make this custard ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the custard a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just reheat it gently before serving, or enjoy it chilled for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).