Simple Vanilla Custard Recipe

Simple Vanilla Custard Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise, or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Water Bath:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
   • Bring a kettle of water to boil for the water bath.
2. Heat Milk and Vanilla:
   • In a saucepan, combine the milk and vanilla bean (scrape out the seeds and add them along with the bean to the milk). Heat over medium until hot but not boiling. If using vanilla extract, do not add it yet.
3. Mix Eggs and Sugar:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
4. Temper Eggs:
   • Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
5. Strain and Add Vanilla Extract:
   • Remove the vanilla bean, if used, and strain the mixture to remove any lumps. If using vanilla extract, stir it in now.
6. Pour into Baking Dish:
   • Pour the custard mixture into a glass baking dish.
7. Bake in Water Bath:
   • Place the baking dish in a larger baking pan. Pour boiling water into the outer pan until it comes about halfway up the sides of the custard dish.
   • Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the custard from the water bath and let cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate until completely chilled.
   • Serve the custard scooped out of the dish or invert onto a plate if desired.

This custard is creamy and smooth, perfect for a simple yet rich dessert. Adjust the sweetness or flavoring according to your taste, and enjoy your dessert making!