Silky Smooth Vanilla Bean Baked Custard

Looking for a dreamy baked custard recipe? This vanilla bean custard is easy, creamy, and perfect for a classic dessert. Get my tips for a perfect bake! ... Desserts & Treats
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of posh nosh? ever wondered how to nail that perfect baked custard recipe , like the ones mary berry makes? honestly, i used to think they were proper complicated.
Now, this vanilla bean custard recipe is now a go-to, and it's way easier than you think.
The Magic of Custard
This classic custard recipe goes way back. it is a simple custard desserts. it is comfort food at its finest! this recipe gives you six portions.
It’s an easy baked custard , taking only about an hour and a half, including chilling time. most of that is just waiting!
Why This Custard's the Bee's Knees
The hero here is real vanilla. we will use the best vanilla bean custard recipe!. it makes all the difference, trust me.
Also, the texture? silky smooth. baking it in a water bath custard recipe (that's a bain marie to the pros) stops it from getting all rubbery.
Plus, homemade egg custard recipe is naturally gluten-free and packed with protein from the eggs. this vanilla bean custard recipe turns out amazing!
Ready to dive in? First, let's gather our bits and bobs. We need a few things to do a easy baked custard.
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need for this baked custard recipe . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. Even if you're not a pro, you can totally nail it!
Silky Smooth Vanilla Bean Baked Custard Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: The Lowdown
Main Ingredients
Alright, let's get this show on the road. Here’s what you need for that creamy vanilla bean custard recipe :
- 2 cups (473 ml) heavy cream. Go for the good stuff; it makes a difference.
- 1 cup (237 ml) whole milk. Full fat is best, trust me.
- 1 vanilla bean , split and scraped. Don't skimp here, this is key for flavor! If you can get a plump, moist one, even better. The aroma should be amazing.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar.
- 6 large egg yolks. Fresh is always best!
- Pinch of sea salt.
- Optional: Freshly grated nutmeg for garnish. A little sprinkle adds warmth.
I remember once using UHT milk. Never again ! The custard was flat and didn't set properly. Learn from my mistakes.
Seasoning Notes: It's All About the Flavour
The vanilla is the star here, obviously. but don't underestimate the salt. a tiny pinch enhances the sweetness. nutmeg adds a lovely warmth, especially if you're feeling festive or want to create some custard desserts to surprise the family with this homemade egg custard recipe .
For a twist, you could try a grating of lemon zest or a splash of bourbon. Just remember, less is more.
If you don't have a vanilla bean, a teaspoon of extract will do in a pinch. but you won't get that intense, almost floral aroma.
Trust me, it's worth the investment . you can still make custard recipes , it would be equally perfect! consider looking into mary berry custard for additional inspiration as she also loves using vanilla.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need a fancy kitchen for this easy baked custard . Here's what's essential:
- Medium saucepan.
- Whisk.
- Mixing bowl.
- Fine-mesh sieve. This is key for a smooth custard . Nobody wants lumps!
- 6 ramekins (about 6-ounce each).
- Baking dish (big enough for the ramekins).
- Kettle.
Don't have ramekins? mugs work! just adjust the baking time slightly. and if you don't have a sieve, you can try using a clean tea towel.
It won’t be quite as effective, but it will do the job to create a classic custard recipe ! a water bath custard recipe is ideal for achieving a perfect texture.
So there you have it! Everything you need to get started with this pudding desserts . It is worth the try with a vanilla bean custard recipe ! Now let's get cooking.

Let's Bake Some Magic: Vanilla Bean Baked Custards
Oh my gosh, are you ready for this? we are diving headfirst into the wonderful world of custard desserts and custard recipes .
We’re making a proper baked custard recipe , and honestly, it's easier than you think. a classic custard recipe is one of those desserts that just makes everything better, isn't it? a homemade egg custard recipe is like a warm hug on a cold day.
This easy baked custard is creamy, dreamy, and so simple.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized
First things first: mise en place , darling! get everything measured out. this makes life so much easier. no scrambling around later, you know? we need 2 cups (473 ml) heavy cream , 1 cup (237 ml) whole milk , 1 vanilla bean , ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar , 6 large egg yolks , and a pinch of salt.
Get your ramekins and baking dish ready too.
Time-Saving Tip : Scrape those vanilla bean seeds ahead of time. It’s fiddly, I know. Safety? Just don't burn yourself. Seriously, hot cream is no joke.
Step-by-Step to Water bath custard recipe Bliss
Okay, here we go. It is a Mary Berry custard recipe approved.
- Infuse that Cream: Heat cream, milk, vanilla bean (pod and seeds) until just simmering. Don't boil! Simmering for 30 minutes covered gives the best flavor.
- Prep the Oven: Preheat to 325° F ( 160° C) . Pop ramekins in a baking dish.
- Whisk Like You Mean It: Whisk yolks, sugar, and salt until pale .
- Temper Tantrum... No!: Slowly pour warm cream into yolks, whisking constantly . Remove vanilla bean pod.
- Strain Away the Lumps: Strain the mixture to get rid of lumps. Super important!
- Fill 'Em Up: Pour custard into ramekins.
- Bath Time: Pour hot water halfway up the ramekins for the water bath.
- Bake: Bake for 45- 60 minutes . Edges set, center slightly jiggly.
Pro Tips: Secrets to Success!
Low and slow is key! That water bath is essential. It prevents curdling and ensures the silkiest texture. The most common mistake is overbaking. Remember slightly jiggly!
To make ahead: the vanilla bean custard recipe can be made a day in advance. chill thoroughly for at least 2 hours or overnight.
This lets the flavors meld beautifully. i once tried to rush it. honestly, not worth it. the texture wasn't as good.
Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Baked Custards
Alright, let's talk deets about this amazing baked custard recipe . honestly, even i get a bit nervous about homemade egg custard recipe sometimes.
But trust me, these tips will make you feel like mary berry herself!
Serving Suggestions: Turning Good into Gorgeous
Presentation matters, innit? Think about a light dusting of nutmeg. Or scatter some fresh berries on top for a pop of color. A drizzle of caramel sauce is also a winner.
Why not try serving your custard desserts with a strong cup of coffee? The bitterness cuts through the richness. A little goes a long way, trust me.
Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Alive
These classic custard recipes are best enjoyed fresh. But life happens! If you have leftovers, no worries. Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they're covered.
Freezing isn't ideal for custard recipes as it can change the texture. but if you must, wrap them super well.
Then defrost them in the fridge overnight. reheating is tricky. honestly, they're best eaten cold.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Feeling adventurous? Add lemon zest for a zingy twist! Or, stir in cocoa powder for a chocolate pudding desserts . Simple swaps, big flavor payoff.
For a lighter take, try using a sugar substitute. Just be sure it's baking-friendly. This vanilla bean custard recipe is so versatile, you can totally make it your own.
Nutrition Basics: A Little Indulgence
Each serving of this easy baked custard is roughly 350 calories. It's got about 7g of protein, 30g of fat, and 15g of carbs (14g of sugar). Remember, it's an estimate!
This water bath custard recipe is more about the experience than the health benefits. It's comfort food. Sometimes, you just need a treat.
So there you have it! All the insider tips you need to nail this baked custard recipe . Don't be scared. Have fun with it! You've got this.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my baked custard recipe curdle? It looks like scrambled eggs!
Oh dear, nobody wants scrambled egg custard! Curdling usually happens when the custard gets too hot. The secret to a silky smooth baked custard recipe is baking it gently in a water bath (bain-marie) at a low temperature (around 325°F/160°C) and don't overbake it, it should still have a wobble in the middle! This helps to regulate the temperature and prevent the eggs from cooking too quickly.
How do I know when my baked custard is done? I don't want to overbake it!
Good on you for being cautious! Overbaking is the enemy of a good custard. The baked custard is done when the edges are set, but the center still has a slight wobble. Think of it like a crème brûlée – a little jiggly is perfect. It will continue to set as it cools in the fridge.
Can I make this baked custard recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I'd recommend it! Baked custard is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. It needs to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to fully set. It's like a fine wine, better with a little time!
Can I add different flavors to my baked custard? I'm feeling adventurous!
Go for it! Customizing your baked custard is part of the fun. Lemon zest added to the cream during infusion is a classic twist, or you can whisk in a couple of tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate version. Just remember to adjust the sugar if needed, and always strain your mixture.
Is this baked custard recipe healthy? What's the nutritional info?
While this baked custard recipe is delicious, it's definitely a treat rather than a health food. It's fairly high in fat and sugar due to the cream and sugar content. A single serving of the baked custard recipe contains approximately 350 calories, 7g of protein, 30g of fat and 15g of carbohydrates. Consider smaller portions, or using whole milk for a slightly lighter version.
Help! I don't have a vanilla bean. Can I still make this baked custard recipe?
No problem at all! A teaspoon of vanilla extract can be easily substituted for the vanilla bean. Simply add it to the cream mixture after you've removed it from the heat. While it won't have the same intense vanilla flavour as the bean, it will still deliver that classic vanilla custard taste. You could also experiment with other extracts, like almond, for a different twist.