Amish Baked Custard is a traditional, old-fashioned dessert that’s smooth, creamy, and rich in flavor. Made with simple ingredients like eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla, this custard is gently baked in a water bath to create a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect as a comforting treat served warm or chilled, this timeless recipe brings a taste of homemade nostalgia to any occasion.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, warmed
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or six individual ramekins.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Slowly add the warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.

Step 3: Strain the Custard (Optional)

5. For an extra silky texture, strain the custard mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any egg solids.

Step 4: Assemble the Water Bath

6. Pour the custard mixture into the prepared baking dish or ramekins.
7. Place the dish or ramekins into a large, deep baking pan.
8. Carefully pour hot water into the baking pan, filling it halfway up the sides of the dish(es). This water bath ensures even baking and prevents the custard from cracking.

Step 5: Bake the Custard

9. Sprinkle the tops of the custard with nutmeg, if desired.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes (for a large dish) or 30-35 minutes (for ramekins), until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
11. Remove from the oven and let the custard cool in the water bath for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

12. Serve warm for a comforting treat or refrigerate for at least 2 hours for a chilled custard.

Notes

• Milk Choice: Whole milk provides the creamiest texture, but half-and-half can be used for an even richer custard.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for extra depth of flavor.
• Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why This Recipe Works

The slow baking process in a water bath helps create an ultra-smooth, velvety texture while preventing the custard from curdling or cracking. The balance of sweetness and rich vanilla flavor makes this a simple yet elegant dessert.

Conclusion

Amish Baked Custard is a classic dessert that’s easy to make and delivers a luxurious, creamy texture with every bite. Whether you enjoy it warm or chilled, this traditional treat is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and experience the comforting flavors of homemade custard!