✨ Description
This nostalgic Amish-inspired baked custard is creamy, smooth, and made with just a handful of ingredients. It’s a simple, comforting dessert that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. A true old-fashioned favorite!
Who Is This Recipe For?
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Fans of vintage and traditional desserts
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Home bakers looking for an easy make-ahead sweet
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Anyone craving something light, smooth, and comforting
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Perfect for family dinners, church potlucks, or holiday tables
⭐ Why It’s Great
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Only 6 basic ingredients
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No special equipment needed
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Silky, creamy texture with rich vanilla flavor
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Great warm or chilled
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A timeless, foolproof classic
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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2-quart baking dish or ramekins
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Large baking pan (for water bath)
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Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
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14 oz (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
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6 eggs
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4 cups hot water
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¼ tsp salt
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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Ground nutmeg (optional garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease your baking dish or ramekins.
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Whisk custard: In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, eggs, hot water, salt, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth.
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Pour & water bath: Pour mixture into dish(es). Place in a larger pan and pour hot water halfway up the sides.
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Bake 45–60 min: Bake until a knife comes out clean and center is slightly jiggly.
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Cool & chill: Remove from water bath, cool to room temp, then chill for 2+ hours.
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Garnish & serve: Sprinkle nutmeg before serving if desired.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
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Freezer: Not recommended as texture may change
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Make-ahead: Perfect to prepare a day in advance
❓ FAQ
Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No—sweetened condensed milk adds both sweetness and creaminess. You’d need to adjust sugar if using evaporated.
Can I bake without a water bath?
You can, but the water bath helps cook the custard gently and evenly—highly recommended!
Can I flavor it differently?
Yes! Try adding cinnamon, orange zest, or almond extract for variation.
Conclusion
This Amish-style baked custard is a timeless dessert that brings back comforting memories with every bite. Creamy, simple, and elegant—it’s the kind of recipe passed down through generations. Just like Nana used to make.
