3-Ingredient Baked Egg Custard (Easy & Classic Recipe)

This simple baked egg custard is a smooth, creamy dessert made with just three basic ingredients you probably already have at home. It’s light, comforting, and perfect as a quick homemade treat.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups (500 ml) milk (preferably whole milk for a richer texture)
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)

Optional (for extra flavor):

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg
• Lemon zest or orange zest

 Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Fine strainer (sieve)
• Baking dish or ramekins
• Large pan (for water bath / bain-marie)

 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
Prepare a larger baking pan and fill it halfway with hot water. This will be used as a water bath (bain-marie) to ensure gentle, even cooking.

2. Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a mixing bowl:

• Crack the eggs
• Add the sugar

Whisk gently until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly pale.
Avoid over-whisking, as too much air can create bubbles in the custard.

3. Heat the Milk

Warm the milk in a saucepan over low heat.
Important: Do not let it boil — it should be warm, not hot.

4. Combine Milk and Eggs

Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
This step prevents the eggs from scrambling and helps create a silky texture.

5. Strain the Mixture

Pour the mixture through a fine sieve into another bowl or directly into your baking dish.
This removes any lumps and ensures a smooth custard.

6. Prepare for Baking

• Pour the custard mixture into ramekins or a baking dish
• Place them inside the prepared water bath

The water should reach about halfway up the sides of the custard containers.

7. Bake

Bake for 30–40 minutes, depending on the size of your dish.

8. Check for Doneness

The custard is ready when:

• The edges are set
• The center still has a slight jiggle

You can also insert a knife — it should come out mostly clean.

9. Cool and Chill

• Remove from the oven
• Let it cool at room temperature
• Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours before serving

Chilling improves both texture and flavor.

 Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top
• Add caramel sauce for a flan-like twist
• Serve with fresh fruit
• Drizzle with honey

 Tips for Perfect Custard

• Use whole milk for a richer, creamier result
• Avoid overheating the milk
• Always bake using a water bath to prevent curdling
• Straining the mixture makes a big difference in texture

 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 150–200
• Protein: 6–8g
• Fat: 5–7g
• Carbohydrates: 20–25g

 Final Thoughts

This 3-ingredient baked egg custard is proof that simple recipes can still be incredibly delicious. With minimal effort, you get a dessert that’s smooth, creamy, and satisfying every time.