Erminia'S Caramelized Custard
A rich, creamy caramelized custard with a smooth texture and sweet caramel flavor, perfect for dessert lovers and suitable for special occasions or elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Select a heavy-duty aluminum mold that will set evenly in a roaster pan; avoid using a Bundt cake mold.
- Prepare the caramel by melting 2 cups of sugar over medium heat until golden brown.
- Pour the caramel into the mold, tilting to coat the bottom evenly.
- In a bowl, whisk together 12 eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the mold.
- Place the mold in a larger roasting pan and add hot water to reach halfway up the sides of the mold to create a water bath.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from oven and cool to room temperature, then refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh eggs and full-fat milk for a rich flavor. If you prefer a less sweet custard, reduce the sugar to 1.5 cups. Consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. If you're short on time, you can make the caramel ahead of time and store it in a glass jar. Ensure you coat the mold evenly with caramel for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the caramelized custard chilled, with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with fresh berries or whipped cream for a delightful contrast. For a more substantial dessert, consider serving it alongside slices of Grandma Ponden'S Coconut Pie for a varied dessert platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the custard in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the custard to become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Erminia'S Caramelized Custard contains roughly 587 calories, with 6g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein.
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 substitute the eggs for a vegan option?
While traditional custard relies on eggs for structure and creaminess, you can experiment with silken tofu blended with a bit of vanilla for a vegan custard. However, the texture and flavor will differ significantly from the original recipe.
What should I do if the custard doesn't set?
If the custard doesn't set after baking, it may need more time in the oven. Ensure the water bath is at the right level; too little water can lead to uneven cooking. If it's still jiggly after an hour, continue baking, checking every 5 minutes.
Can I add flavors other than vanilla?
Absolutely! You can infuse the milk with flavors such as almond extract, citrus zest, or even espresso for a unique twist. Just be cautious with the amounts, as strong flavors can overpower the custard.
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).