Classic Baked Milk Pudding (Printable)

Silky comforting dessert with vanilla aroma and golden caramelized top. Simple ingredients create perfect finish for any meal.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy

01 - 4 cups whole milk
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 - 3 large eggs

→ Sweeteners

04 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
05 - 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for caramelized top)

→ Flavorings

06 - 2 tsp vanilla extract
07 - Pinch of salt

# Steps:

01 - Preheat your oven to 325°F. Lightly butter a 2-quart baking dish or six individual ramekins.
02 - In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and heavy cream. Heat gently over medium heat until just steaming, not boiling.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and pale.
04 - Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
05 - Strain the mixture through a fine sieve into a large jug to remove any cooked egg bits.
06 - Pour the custard into the prepared baking dish or ramekins. Place the dish/ramekins in a large roasting pan and fill the pan halfway with hot water to create a water bath.
07 - Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the pudding is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
08 - Remove from the oven and cool slightly. If desired, sprinkle sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler for a golden finish. Serve warm or chilled.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The texture is impossibly smooth, like silk on your spoon
  • It uses ingredients you probably already have in your fridge
  • The golden caramelized top makes it feel fancy without the fuss
02 -
  • The water bath is not optional, it is what prevents the eggs from scrambling and creates that smooth texture
  • Let the pudding cool for at least 15 minutes before serving, it continues to set and the flavors develop
  • If you do not have a kitchen torch, the broiler works but keep the door open and watch it like a hawk
03 -
  • Use a light colored metal baking dish rather than glass for more even heat distribution
  • If you see any bubbles forming on the surface while baking, your oven is too hot

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