Caramel Custard

There’s something undeniably comforting about Caramel Custard, a dessert that dances on the palate with its creamy texture and sweet, caramel notes. This classic dish is cherished in many cultures, and it’s easy to understand why. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a sophisticated dessert that impresses at any gathering or serves as a sweet treat after dinner. Making Caramel Custard feels like a warm embrace, and it’s a delightful way to end a meal.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Caramel Custard lies in its simplicity. By combining eggs, evaporated milk, and sugar, you create a custard base that is rich and velvety. The caramel brings a deep, complex sweetness that enhances the overall flavor, making each bite an experience. The water bath used during baking ensures even cooking, preventing the custard from curdling and resulting in a silky texture.

Ingredient Notes

To make this luscious Caramel Custard, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated white sugar: This is for both the caramel and the custard. It provides the sweetness and the beautiful caramelization.
• 3 large eggs: Eggs are the binding agents and give the custard its creamy texture.
• 1 cup evaporated milk: This adds richness and depth of flavor to the custard.
• 1 cup hot water: Used in the water bath to ensure gentle cooking.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness of the caramel.

Prep & Cook Tools

Having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend the eggs and other ingredients until smooth.
• Ramekins or custard cups: To bake individual servings of Caramel Custard.
• Baking dish: To hold the ramekins during the water bath cooking method.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accuracy in your recipe.

Caramel Custard — Do This Next

Ready to create your Caramel Custard? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar melts and turns a golden brown. Be careful not to burn it. Once it reaches the desired color, quickly pour the caramel into the bottoms of your ramekins, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Custard Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until smooth. Be careful not to incorporate too much air; a gentle hand is key.

Step 3: Assemble for Baking

Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the ramekins. Place the ramekins in a baking dish, and carefully pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath is essential for evenly cooking the custard.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the custards for about 40-45 minutes or until they are set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. You can test doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the ramekins from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor. To serve, run a knife around the edges of the custard, invert onto a plate, and watch as the caramel cascades down the sides.

Customize for Your Needs

There are endless ways to personalize your Caramel Custard. Consider the following:

• Add a splash of your favorite liqueur to the custard for an adult twist.
• Incorporate citrus zest, like lemon or orange, for a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Top with whipped cream or fresh fruits for added texture and flavor.
• For a unique twist, try using coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.

Pro Tips & Notes

• Watch the caramel closely; it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.
• Ensure the water bath is hot when you place it in the oven to help the custard cook evenly.
• If you prefer a more pronounced vanilla flavor, you can add an extra ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• For a smoother texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine mesh sieve before pouring it into the ramekins.

Storage & Reheat Guide

The Caramel Custard can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the ramekins in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can alter the texture.

Questions People Ask

Can I make Caramel Custard ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, Caramel Custard is best when made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the custard to fully set in the fridge.

What can I use instead of evaporated milk?

You can substitute evaporated milk with whole milk or a combination of milk and cream for a richer taste. Coconut milk is also a great alternative for a unique flavor twist.

How do I know when the custard is done?

The custard should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when it’s done. It will continue to cook slightly once removed from the oven.

Why did my caramel harden?

If your caramel hardens, it may be due to the sugar crystallizing. To prevent this, ensure you don’t stir the sugar once it begins to melt, and use a wet pastry brush to wash down the sides of the pan to remove any sugar crystals.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Butter Cake With Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting Recipe
• Caramel Cheesecake Bites

Serve & Enjoy

Your Caramel Custard is ready to be enjoyed! Whether served as a grand finale to a dinner party or as a sweet indulgence for yourself, this dessert is sure to please. The combination of creamy custard and luscious caramel creates a delightful harmony that’s simply irresistible. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Caramel Custard

This Caramel Custard is a creamy, dreamy dessert that impresses with its rich flavor and silky texture!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: Global

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Caramel and Custard:

• 1 cup granulated white sugar for caramel and custard
• 3 large eggs for binding and texture
• 1 cup evaporated milk for richness
• 1 cup hot water for water bath
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance flavor
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg for warm spice

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Ramekins or custard cups
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

Steps to Prepare:

1. Step 1: Prepare the Caramel - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar melts and turns a golden brown, then pour into the bottoms of ramekins.
2. Step 2: Mix the Custard Base - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla extract, and ground nutmeg until smooth.
3. Step 3: Assemble for Baking - Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the ramekins. Place them in a baking dish and pour hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
4. Step 4: Bake - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes or until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
5. Step 5: Cool and Serve - After baking, cool to room temperature, refrigerate for at least 2 hours, then invert onto a plate to serve.

Notes

• Watch the caramel closely to avoid burning.
• Use hot water for the water bath to ensure even cooking.
• Strain the custard for a smoother texture.