Posted by Egg custard is a timeless dessert cherished for its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This delightful dish is often associated with home-cooked meals and nostalgic memories. However, this version enhances the classic recipe by introducing a healthier approach that is both protein-rich and sugar-free. Utilizing unsweetened almond milk, natural sweeteners, and high-quality protein powder, this recipe offers a deliciously guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients for a Health-Conscious Delight
- 3 cups unsweetened almond milk: A low-calorie alternative to traditional dairy milk, almond milk provides a nutty flavor and creamy texture without the added sugars.
- 4 large eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, eggs form the base of the custard, ensuring a rich and satisfying consistency.
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder: This adds an extra protein boost, making the dessert not only tasty but also filling.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infusing the custard with a delightful vanilla flavor, this ingredient enhances the overall taste profile.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon liquid vanilla stevia: A natural sweetener that adds sweetness without the calories of traditional sugar.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg: These spices provide a warm, aromatic touch, perfect for enhancing the custard’s flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Your Egg Custard
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your custard cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Heat the Almond Milk: In a saucepan, gently heat the unsweetened almond milk until it is steaming but not boiling. This step is crucial as it prepares the milk for tempering the eggs, preventing them from curdling.
- Mix the Custard Base: In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, vanilla protein powder, pure vanilla extract, liquid stevia, and salt. Beat the mixture until all ingredients are well blended and the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Temper the Eggs: Gradually stir a small amount of the hot almond milk into the egg mixture to temper it. This step helps to slowly raise the temperature of the eggs, reducing the risk of scrambling. Once mixed, pour in the remaining hot almond milk gradually while continuing to stir.
- Prepare Ramekins: Lightly grease or spray six ramekins with a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the custard from sticking and makes for easier serving.
- Pour the Mixture: Evenly distribute the egg custard mixture into the prepared ramekins, filling each about three-quarters full.
- Set Up the Water Bath: Place the filled ramekins in a 9 by 13-inch baking dish. This water bath method helps the custards cook gently and evenly. Carefully pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
- Sprinkle with Spice: Before baking, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over each custard. This will add a lovely aroma and depth of flavor as they bake.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Cool Down: Once baked, carefully remove the ramekins from the water bath and place them on a wire rack to cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the custards to firm up slightly.
- Serve or Store: Enjoy the egg custards warm, or refrigerate them for later. They can be enjoyed chilled, making them a versatile dessert option.
Vanilla Protein Egg Custards
This sugar-free egg custard is a healthy alternative to traditional desserts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the guilt.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon liquid vanilla stevia
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (for sprinkling)
Simple Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat the Almond Milk: Warm the almond milk until steaming but not boiling.
- Blend Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, protein powder, vanilla extract, stevia, and salt until smooth.
- Combine with Milk: Slowly add hot almond milk to the egg mixture to temper it, then mix in the rest gradually.
- Prepare Ramekins: Grease six ramekins and pour in the custard mixture.
- Set Up Baking Dish: Place the ramekins in a baking dish and add hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg before baking.
- Bake: Cook for 25-30 minutes until set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the water bath, cool for 10 minutes, and enjoy warm or chilled.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 ramekin
- Calories: 76 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 7.4g
- Fat: 4.1g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Cholesterol: 123mg
- Sodium: 232mg
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 0.2g
