Creamy Orange Custard

Creamy Orange Custard is a silky, melt-in-your-mouth dessert bursting with fresh orange flavor and a hint of vanilla. Light yet indulgent, this easy custard is perfect for a refreshing finish to any meal — simple to make and beautiful to serve in individual cups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright, citrusy twist on classic custard.
• Simple ingredients — no special equipment required.
• Smooth, creamy texture that’s not too heavy.
• Great make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
• Naturally gluten-free.
• Customizable with toppings like whipped cream or candied orange peel.
• Elegant but easy enough for weeknights.
• Uses fresh orange juice and zest for real flavor.
• Feels fancy but ready in under an hour.
• Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra thickness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• Pinch of salt

Optional garnish:

• Whipped cream
• Orange zest or candied orange peel
• Fresh mint leaves

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Place 4–6 ramekins in a baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat milk and orange zest over medium heat until steaming (do not boil). Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cornstarch (if using), vanilla, orange juice, and salt.
4. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl for a smooth custard.
6. Divide custard mixture evenly among the ramekins.
7. Pour hot water into the baking dish to reach halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
8. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the custard is just set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
9. Remove ramekins from the water bath and cool to room temperature. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with whipped cream and extra zest if desired.

Servings and timing

Makes 4–6 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes; Bake time: 30–40 minutes; Chill time: at least 2 hours.

Variations

• Add a splash of orange liqueur like Grand Marnier for extra depth.
• Use blood oranges for a more vibrant color.
• Top with caramelized sugar for an orange crème brûlée twist.
• Infuse the milk with a cinnamon stick for a warm spice note.
• Substitute part of the milk with heavy cream for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover custard tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Serve chilled — no reheating needed.

FAQs

Can I make this custard ahead of time?

Yes! It’s best when chilled for a few hours or overnight.

Do I need a water bath?

Yes — it helps the custard bake gently and evenly for a silky texture.

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh juice?

Fresh juice and zest give the best flavor, but you can add a drop of extract if you want a stronger taste.

How do I know when the custard is done?

The edges should be set but the center should still jiggle slightly. A knife should come out clean.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.

Why strain the custard?

Straining removes any bits of cooked egg for a perfectly smooth texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just check that your vanilla extract is gluten-free.

Can I use a large baking dish instead of ramekins?

Yes, bake in a shallow dish, but the baking time may need to be adjusted.

What toppings go well with orange custard?

Whipped cream, candied orange peel, fresh mint, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Can I freeze orange custard?

It’s not recommended — freezing can change the smooth texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Orange Custard is a bright, fresh twist on classic custard desserts — easy to make, stunning to serve, and packed with real orange flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a sweet, citrusy treat, this elegant dessert is sure to delight everyone at the table!

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