Breakfast Custard
A creamy, comforting breakfast custard with delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for a gentle start to your day or a simple brunch treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, sugar, salt, vanilla, and milk in a mixing bowl.
- Pour the mixture into 6 to 8 custard cups.
- Place the cups on folded paper towel in a frying pan with a tight-fitting lid.
- Pour cold water into the pan to half the height of the cups.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Remove the pan from heat.
- Allow the custards to steam until set, about 15 minutes.
- Ensure water doesn't drip into the custards when removing the lid.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier custard, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. If you’re out of vanilla extract, almond extract can be a delightful substitute. Ensure the water doesn’t boil vigorously while steaming, as this can create bubbles in the custard. For an added flavor twist, you can incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These custards are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with fresh fruit or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair them with a side of crispy bacon or a light salad for a balanced breakfast. For a special treat, serve with a scoop of Old Fashioned Sugar-Free Vanilla Ice Cream for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custards in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the custard to curdle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Breakfast Custard contains roughly 64 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1170mg per serving (51% 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 make this custard ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the custard mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for a day. Just remember to pour it into the custard cups and steam it just before serving to ensure the best texture.
What can I do if my custards aren't setting?
If your custards aren't setting, it may be due to insufficient steaming time or incorrect water levels. Ensure water reaches halfway up the cups and steam for the full 15 minutes. If they still don't set, they may need a bit more time.
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use almond, soy, or oat milk as a substitute for regular milk. Keep in mind that non-dairy milks may alter the flavor slightly, so choose one that complements the vanilla well.
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).