Arnaud's Caramel Custard

Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• 3 eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups milk, scalded
• 1/2 teaspoon best quality pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 275 degrees F.
2. In a small, heavy skillet over low heat, stir the 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon water until the sugar melts, is free of lumps and turns a light caramel color.
3. Pour a spoonful into 6 (4 ounce) custard cups and let stand until cooled.
4. Beat the eggs with the 1/4 cup sugar and add the scalded milk slowly, while stirring. Add vanilla extract. Strain carefully into the prepared cups to avoid disturbing the caramel.
5. Place cups in a pan of hot water. The water should come almost to the top of the cups. Cover with foil. Bake slowly, 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Remove from the water and cool. Chill.
7. To serve, run a knife around the edge of the custard and invert the cup onto a small plate.

Attribution

Arnaud's