Old-Fashion Egg Custard
Old-Fashion Egg Custard is a creamy, sweet dessert with rich vanilla flavor, baked in flaky pie shells. Its smooth texture and delicate sweetness make it perfect for family gatherings or a comforting treat after dinner. Topped with a hint of nutmeg, it offers a nostalgic taste of classic American baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine eggs, sugar, and vanilla; mix well.
- Stir in the Ensure cans until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the mixture into two pie shells.
- Bake in the preheated oven until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, about 35 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle top with nutmeg while hot.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. If you don't have Ensure, you can substitute with whole milk or a combination of milk and cream. To enhance the aroma, try infusing the vanilla with a bit of nutmeg or cinnamon. For a slightly different texture, use a mix of regular and deep-dish pie shells. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the custard warm or chilled, dusted with freshly grated nutmeg for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a light meal, consider serving it alongside fresh fruit or a simple green salad. This dish is reminiscent of Aunt Tot Warner's Egg Custard and is sure to delight guests at any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire custard in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashion Egg Custard contains roughly 611 calories, with 6g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness level may vary, so adjust the amount according to your taste. If using liquid sweeteners, you may need to reduce the volume of other liquids slightly.
Is it possible to make this egg custard dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the Ensure with a dairy-free milk like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Just ensure that the alternative milk is unsweetened if you're sensitive to sugar content. This way, you can enjoy a delicious custard while adhering to dietary preferences or restrictions.
How can I tell when the custard is done baking?
The custard is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, usually after about 35 minutes of baking. The surface should be set but slightly jiggly, as it will continue to firm up as it cools. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a rubbery texture.
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).