Perfect Set Custard

A set custard is a delicate preparation of eggs, cream, milk, and sugar baked in the oven inside a bain-marie (a water bath). The water bath is essential because it provides gentle, even heat that prevents the custard from curdling. Oven temperature must be precise: too hot and the eggs will curdle, creating a grainy, separated texture; too cool and the custard will not set at all. The perfect set custard should have a visible wobble when removed from the oven, as it will continue to firm up as it cools. Small moulds require extra care, as they are more sensitive to temperature variations. Allow the custard to cool gradually for the smoothest, silkiest result.