Grape-Nuts Baked Custard

I’ve always had a fondness for Grape-Nuts cereal. Despite the mystery of its name—what do grapes or nuts have to do with it?—there’s something undeniably charming about its crunch and subtle flavor. It’s a cereal I’ve been enjoying since childhood, yet it never occurred to me to use it in a recipe. That changed when I stumbled upon an intriguing recipe card tucked away in a vintage recipe tin for Grape-Nuts Custard. This dessert turned out to be a soft, sweet, and slightly nutty custard that is as comforting as it is simple to make.

When I discovered this collection of handwritten recipes, I decided to embark on what I call the Recipe Tin Project—a mission to bring these forgotten treasures back to life. Among timeless classics like Chocolate Cake and Chicken Casserole, I also found less conventional creations like Jellied Chicken Gumbo, which became my first project. If you’re curious about the collection, you can read more about it in my first post here.

The idea of Grape-Nuts Custard piqued my interest, especially given its endearing recipe card adorned with a sweet illustration and shaky handwriting. A bit of research revealed that Grape-Nuts cereal has been around since 1897, and its custard recipe was featured in a magazine as early as 1901. By the 1920s, it gained popularity throughout New England. It’s a classic I never knew existed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grape-Nuts Baked Custard is a delightful blend of simplicity and nostalgia. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require any fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 8×8-inch baking dish
• Large roasting pan
• Oven

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk, scalded
• 2 eggs, slightly beaten
• 1/3 cup Grape-Nuts cereal
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the scalded milk, mixing until thoroughly combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and Grape-Nuts cereal, stirring until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
5. Create a hot water bath by placing the baking dish in a large roasting pan filled with 2 inches of hot water. Ensure that the water reaches halfway up the outside of the custard dish.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Serve plain or with a dollop of cream or cool whip.

Tips for Success

• Ensure that the milk is scalded to help the custard set properly.
• Use a sharp knife to test for doneness; the custard should be firm and the knife should come out clean.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon into the custard mixture.
• Try serving with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for a sweet twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This custard is a satisfying treat with a balance of protein and carbohydrates, making it both delicious and energizing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this custard ahead of time? Yes, this custard can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.

What is scalded milk? Scalded milk is milk that has been heated to just below boiling, which helps improve the texture of the custard.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try this Grape-Nuts Baked Custard as I was when I first discovered it. Its rich history and comforting flavors make it a delightful addition to any dessert lineup. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to hear about your experiences and any creative variations you come up with.