Description
This Cheese Custard recipe is a creamy, savory baked custard infused with your choice of cheese and optional herbs or spices for added flavor. It yields a smooth, delicate texture through gentle baking in a water bath, making it an elegant appetizer or side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Base
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
Cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (your choice)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Flavorings (Optional)
- Herbs, spices, dried mushrooms, or other infusing items
Instructions
- Infuse the milk: Heat the milk to just below boiling, then add your chosen herbs, spices, or dried mushrooms. Let the milk steep until it cools, then strain it into a mixing bowl to remove solids.
- Preheat oven and prepare water bath: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Heat some water to a simmer that will be used to create a water bath during baking.
- Prepare ramekins: Butter four 1-cup ramekins or other heatproof dishes to prevent sticking and aid in easy removal.
- Mix eggs and milk: Stir the eggs into the cooled, infused milk. Season with salt and white pepper. For the smoothest texture, strain the mixture to eliminate any curdled bits.
- Add cheese and solid flavorings: Incorporate the grated cheese and any solid herbs or spices into the milk and egg mixture, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Fill ramekins: Pour the custard mixture evenly into the prepared baking cups.
- Set up water bath: Place the filled baking cups into a large shallow baking dish (such as a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex). Place the dish in the oven rack, then carefully pour the simmering water around the cups until it reaches about halfway up their sides.
- Bake the custard: Bake the custard until it is mostly set with a slight jiggle in the center, about 20 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Using white pepper instead of black pepper will keep the custard’s appearance clean and free of visible specks.
- Straining the milk and egg mixture before baking creates the smoothest custard texture.
- You can customize the flavor by infusing milk with your favorite herbs, spices, or dried mushrooms.
- Ensure the water bath is carefully handled to avoid water leaking into the custards.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as an appetizer or side dish.
