Surprise Baked Custard
Surprise Baked Custard offers a creamy, comforting dessert with customizable mix-ins like nuts or fruit, perfect for family gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, salt, and sugar together until well blended.
- Gradually stir in the scalded milk.
- Add vanilla extract.
- Place one tablespoon of surprise ingredients in each of 6 custard cups.
- Pour the custard mixture into the cups.
- Sprinkle with nutmeg, if desired.
- Set the cups in a large baking pan and pour very hot water into the pan to within 1/2 inch of the top of the custards.
- Bake at 350°F until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, ensure the milk is hot but not boiling when mixing with the eggs. You can substitute the non-nutritive sweetener with an equal amount of granulated sugar if desired. Feel free to experiment with surprise ingredients; chopped nuts and fruit preserves add delightful flavors. For a twist, consider adding a splash of almond extract for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked custard warm or chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional nutmeg. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Quick Brunch Coffee Cake for a delightful brunch spread. Consider adding fresh fruit or a light salad on the side to balance the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overheating and curdling. Alternatively, you can re-bake the custard until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Surprise Baked Custard contains roughly 657 calories, with 9g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 711mg per serving (31% 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 different types of milk?
Yes, you can use whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk as alternatives. Just ensure that if you use non-dairy options, they are unsweetened to maintain the intended sweetness of the custard.
What can I do if my custard doesn't set?
If your custard doesn't set, it may need more baking time. Check for doneness by inserting a knife near the center; if it comes out clean, it's ready. If not, return it to the oven for a few more minutes.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any flour. Just be sure to check the labels of any surprise ingredients like nuts or fruit preserves to confirm they are gluten-free.
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).