Vanilla & Cardamom Baked Custard

This is nursery food for grown-ups. A soft, wobbly baked custard, gently scented with vanilla and cardamom. It's simple, soothing, and deeply comforting. Perfect for when you need something gentle and sweet.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 500ml whole milk (or oat milk)
• 3 eggs
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp ground cardamom
• Pinch of nutmeg

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 150°C (130°C fan).
2. Warm the milk gently in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling.
3. In a bowl, whisk the eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and cardamom.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Pour into four ramekins. Sprinkle a little nutmeg on top.
6. Place the ramekins in a deep baking dish. Pour hot water into the dish until it comes halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until set but still slightly wobbly in the centre.
8. Cool slightly, then serve warm or chilled.

Why it's gut-friendly: Eggs provide protein. Milk (or oat milk) is gentle. Cardamom aids digestion. A light, soothing dessert.