Cup Custard
Cup custard is a delightful, creamy dessert that offers a comforting blend of vanilla and sweet flavors. Its smooth texture and rich taste make it a perfect treat for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. This dish is ideal for those seeking a light yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine milk, sugar, and salt; slowly stir in water.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla.
- Pour mixture into 6 custard cups.
- Set pan containing 1-inch hot water.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 50 minutes or until knife inserted near edge of custard comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting a portion of the nonfat dry milk with whole milk or evaporated milk. Make sure to whisk the eggs thoroughly to avoid any clumps. If you prefer a sweeter custard, you can increase the sugar slightly. Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the custard chilled or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, and a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a slice of hickory nut cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover custard in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave in 15-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating, as this can cause the custard to curdle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cup Custard contains roughly 544 calories, with 12g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1052mg per serving (46% 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 regular milk instead of nonfat dry milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk. To substitute, use 3 cups of milk and omit the water. This will create a richer custard. If you want to maintain a low-fat version, stick with the original recipe using nonfat dry milk.
How can I tell when the custard is done baking?
The custard is done when a knife inserted near the edge comes out clean. Additionally, the custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center. If it looks overly firm, it may have been overcooked.
Can I add spices or flavors to the custard?
Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the mixture before baking. For a different profile, consider infusing the milk with zest from an orange or lemon, or using flavored extracts.
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).