Caramel Custard Recipe

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Caramel Custard Recipe

A Classic, Silky Dessert with a Rich Caramel Finish

Caramel Custard, also known as Crème Caramel, is a beloved dessert enjoyed around the world for its luxuriously smooth texture and deep, golden caramel flavor. This elegant dessert feels both comforting and indulgent — perfect for family dinners, festive celebrations, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

Best of all, it’s made with a handful of basic ingredients — milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla — and comes together beautifully with just a little care and patience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and no fancy tools.
  • Light but Satisfying: Creamy yet not heavy, it finishes a meal on the perfect note.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be chilled overnight for convenience.
  • Versatile: Simple to customize with flavors or serve with fruits and toppings.

Ingredients

For the Caramel:

  • Granulated sugar – 1 cup (200g)

For the Custard:

  • Full-fat milk – 2 cups (500ml)
  • Large eggs – 4
  • Granulated sugar – ½ cup (100g)
  • Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel

  1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar over medium-low heat.
  2. Without stirring, let the sugar melt gradually. Swirl the pan gently to encourage even melting.
  3. Once it turns a deep golden brown, immediately remove from heat to prevent burning.
  4. Pour the caramel into an 8-inch round baking dish or divide among individual ramekins. Tilt to coat the bottom evenly. Let it cool and harden.

Step 2: Make the Custard

  1. In a saucepan, gently warm 2 cups of milk over low heat. Do not boil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 eggs until just combined.
  3. Add ½ cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla, whisking until smooth and slightly frothy.
  4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking gently to prevent curdling.
  5. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps for a smooth texture.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the custard mixture over the cooled caramel, being careful not to disturb the layer.
  2. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
  3. Place the dish or ramekins in a deep baking tray. Add hot water to the tray, halfway up the sides (this is a bain-marie or water bath).
  4. Bake for 45–60 minutes (or 35–40 minutes for ramekins), until set but slightly jiggly in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean.
  5. Remove from oven and water bath. Cool to room temperature, then cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 4: Unmold and Serve

  • Run a knife around the edge of the dish to loosen the custard.
  • Place a serving plate over the dish and invert to release.
  • The golden caramel sauce will flow over the top, creating a beautiful presentation.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Don’t overmix the custard: Avoid too much whisking to keep the texture velvety and bubble-free.
  • Keep an eye on the caramel: It can burn in seconds once golden.
  • Check doneness early: The custard should still wobble slightly in the center when done.

Creative Variations

  • Dairy-Free: Use full-fat coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a lactose-free version.
  • Flavored Infusions: Simmer the milk with cinnamon, orange peel, or cardamom pods. Strain before mixing.
  • Sugar Alternatives: Try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute — just note caramel color may vary.
  • Single Servings: Use ramekins for individual custards. Perfect for dinner parties!

Serving Suggestions

  • With Fresh Fruit: Sliced mangoes, berries, or caramelized bananas offer a refreshing contrast.
  • With Whipped Cream: Add a light, sweetened dollop for a luxurious touch.
  • With Coffee: Enjoy it with a shot of espresso or your favorite hot beverage for a European-style dessert.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Best enjoyed chilled, but can be warmed slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds). Avoid overheating.
  • Make-Ahead: Make the day before serving for best flavor and convenience.

Final Thoughts

Caramel Custard is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. With its melt-in-the-mouth texture and golden caramel topping, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Whether served at a celebration or as a cozy treat at home, it’s a recipe worth mastering.

 

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