This Creamy Milk Dessert—sometimes known as “Baked Milk Pudding” or “Flan-style Milk Cake”—is a simple, old-fashioned recipe that captures the essence of homemade comfort. With just a few basic ingredients—milk, eggs, sugar, and a hint of vanilla—this dessert transforms into a rich, velvety treat that’s both nostalgic and elegant. It’s smooth and slightly custardy, with a caramelized top and a soft, creamy interior.
This recipe is especially beloved in traditional kitchens because it’s made entirely from pantry staples and doesn’t require special equipment. Whether you serve it warm or chilled, its delicate sweetness and silky texture make it perfect for any occasion—from a simple family meal to a festive dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups (1 liter) whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra aroma)
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
- Butter or margarine (for greasing the baking dish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Crack 4 large eggs into a large mixing bowl. Using a fork or whisk, lightly beat them until the yolks and whites are just combined. There’s no need to whip the eggs until frothy—this dessert relies on a smooth, delicate texture rather than an airy one. Overbeating introduces air, which can lead to bubbles in the final baked texture.
The goal is to achieve a consistent golden-yellow mixture, smooth and well blended.
Step 2: Add the Sugar
Gradually add 1 cup of granulated sugar to the beaten eggs. Stir continuously with the whisk or a spatula until the sugar has dissolved completely. This ensures an even sweetness throughout the dessert and prevents any graininess.
Tip: If you want to reduce sweetness, you can use ¾ cup of sugar instead, especially if serving with a sweet topping or syrup later.
Step 3: Incorporate the Milk
Once the eggs and sugar are well combined, slowly pour in 4 cups (1 liter) of whole milk. Stir constantly as you pour to fully integrate the milk into the egg mixture.
If you’d like a fragrant note, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage. The vanilla will enhance the dessert’s aroma and give it a pleasant warmth reminiscent of custard.
Continue mixing gently until the liquid mixture is completely uniform.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a glass baking dish (approximately 9×9 inches or similar size) with butter or margarine. Coat all sides and corners evenly to prevent sticking and to help the pudding release easily after baking.
If you want to elevate the dessert further, you can lightly dust the greased dish with a small amount of sugar before pouring in the mixture—this creates a slightly caramelized crust once baked.
Step 5: Pour the Mixture
Carefully pour the milk and egg mixture into the prepared glass dish. Make sure it’s filled evenly and the surface is level for even cooking. You can gently tap the dish on the counter to remove any air bubbles that may have formed.
Step 6: Bake the Dessert
Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C). Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown and the dessert has set.
To test for doneness, insert a toothpick or thin knife into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a trace of moisture (not liquid), it’s ready.
Note: The dessert will continue to firm up slightly as it cools, so avoid overbaking. Overbaking can cause the texture to become rubbery instead of creamy.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely at room temperature. This cooling process helps the dessert set into its final smooth consistency.
After cooling, sprinkle ground cinnamon lightly over the top for a warm, aromatic finish. The cinnamon not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful rustic appearance.
You can serve it at room temperature or chilled, depending on preference. Refrigerating for a few hours enhances its firmness and creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Style: Serve slices as-is, lightly sprinkled with cinnamon.
- Caramel Drizzle: Pour a thin stream of caramel sauce over each portion for added sweetness and shine.
- Fruit Garnish: Top with sliced strawberries, peaches, or berries to add freshness and color.
- Creamy Finish: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for extra indulgence.
- Festive Twist: Sprinkle toasted coconut or crushed nuts for texture and visual appeal.
This dessert pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Although possible, freezing may alter the texture. If freezing, wrap portions tightly and thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 6 hours before baking. Stir well before pouring into the dish.
Tips for Success
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture. Skim or low-fat milk can make the dessert slightly watery.
- Don’t overmix the eggs—gentle mixing ensures a silky, custard-like consistency.
- Control baking time carefully; the dessert should be just set but not dry.
- Cool completely before cutting to get neat slices. Warm pudding will be too soft to serve cleanly.
- Optional water bath: For an even creamier texture, place the baking dish inside a larger tray filled halfway with hot water (a bain-marie). This helps the dessert bake gently and evenly.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it relies on balance and simplicity. The eggs provide structure, the milk gives body and creaminess, and the sugar adds sweetness without overpowering. Baking slowly at moderate heat ensures a custard-like texture that’s firm yet soft.
It’s also incredibly versatile. The base recipe can be customized by adding flavorings like lemon zest, coconut, or chocolate. It’s a perfect canvas for creativity, while still shining on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use evaporated or condensed milk instead of regular milk?
Yes, but adjustments are needed. Evaporated milk can replace regular milk for a richer flavor. If using sweetened condensed milk, reduce the added sugar by half, as it’s already very sweet.
2. Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute milk with coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk. The texture will be slightly different—less creamy—but still delicious.
3. What’s the best dish to bake this in?
A glass or ceramic baking dish works best, as it distributes heat evenly and helps the dessert bake uniformly. Avoid metal pans, which can cook too quickly and brown the edges too much.
4. How do I prevent a rubbery texture?
Rubbery texture usually means it was overbaked or the eggs were overbeaten. Bake only until the center is set and lightly jiggly, and mix gently when preparing the batter.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes. You can safely reduce the sugar to ¾ cup without affecting texture too much. It will be less sweet but still creamy and balanced.
6. Should I cover it while baking?
No, leave it uncovered so the top can brown slightly and form a beautiful golden crust.
7. Can I use a blender to mix the ingredients?
Yes, but blend on low speed for just a few seconds to combine. Over-blending can introduce too much air, creating bubbles in the texture.
8. How can I make it richer or more indulgent?
Use a combination of milk and heavy cream, or add an extra egg yolk for added richness.
9. Can I make it into individual servings?
Definitely. Pour the mixture into small ramekins and reduce the baking time to 25–30 minutes. Check for doneness earlier, as smaller portions cook faster.
10. How should I serve it—warm or cold?
It can be enjoyed both ways. Warm gives a softer, custard-like texture, while cold makes it firmer and more refreshing.
Conclusion
This Creamy Milk Dessert is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The eggs and milk form a smooth, velvety custard, while the sugar and vanilla provide a delicate sweetness that feels both homey and sophisticated. Baked slowly until just set, it’s light yet satisfying, sweet yet not cloying—a dessert that truly celebrates the beauty of simplicity.
Whether enjoyed plain, topped with cinnamon, or dressed up with fruit and caramel, this recipe promises a comforting experience in every spoonful. It’s a timeless classic you’ll want to make again and again, for everyday indulgence or special occasions alike.