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Introduction
Lemon desserts have a special place in many kitchens because they are fresh, bright, and full of happy flavor. This Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe is all about smooth texture, gentle sweetness, and a light citrus taste that feels both rich and refreshing at the same time. These small custard cups are baked slowly until they become soft and creamy inside, with a delicate top layer. They look simple, but the taste feels fancy. Many people think custard is hard to make, but this recipe shows that anyone can prepare it at home with basic ingredients and easy steps.
People love this Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe because it gives comfort and freshness in every spoon. The creamy base melts in the mouth, while the lemon adds a clean and lively flavor that keeps the dessert from feeling too heavy. It is perfect for people who enjoy sweets that are not too sugary. The balance of milk, eggs, sugar, and lemon makes each bite smooth and pleasant. It is also a great dessert when you want something homemade that looks impressive but does not need expert baking skills.
You can make these lemon custard cups for many reasons and moments. They are wonderful after a family dinner, during a weekend treat, or when guests come to visit. They are also nice for spring and summer days when people want lighter desserts. Some people enjoy them as a portion controlled sweet because each cup is small and satisfying. The gentle lemon flavor can also feel refreshing after a heavy meal. If you want a dessert that feels classic, easy, and comforting, this Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe is a perfect choice.
Ingredients You Will Need
For this Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe, you only need simple kitchen ingredients that are easy to find.
Whole milk 2 cups
Fresh lemon juice 1 by 3 cup
Lemon zest 1 tablespoon
Large eggs 3
Granulated sugar 1 by 2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 small pinch
Warm water for baking tray about 3 cups
Optional for serving
Fresh berries 1 by 2 cup
Light whipped cream 1 cup
Mint leaves a few pieces
Step by Step Method
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe. Read all steps once before starting so you feel relaxed and ready.
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F or 160 degrees C. Place a kettle or pot of water on the stove and warm it. You will need hot water later for the baking tray bath.
Step 2
Wash the lemons well. Grate the outer yellow skin to get lemon zest. Be careful to avoid the white part because it tastes bitter. After zesting, cut the lemons and squeeze the juice. Remove any seeds. Measure the needed amount of juice and keep it aside.
Step 3
Take a medium mixing bowl. Add the eggs and sugar. Use a whisk or fork and mix gently until the sugar starts to dissolve and the mixture looks smooth. Do not beat too hard. You do not want too much foam.
Step 4
Add the milk slowly into the egg and sugar mixture. Stir while pouring so everything blends evenly. Now add the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. Mix again until fully combined. The mixture will be thin and pale in color.
Step 5
If you want extra smooth custard cups, pour the mixture through a fine strainer into another bowl. This removes any bits of egg or zest that are too large. This step helps create a silky texture.
Step 6
Place small oven safe cups or ramekins on a deep baking tray. Divide the custard mixture evenly into the cups. Leave a little space at the top of each cup.
Step 7
Carefully place the baking tray on the oven rack. Now pour the hot water into the tray around the cups. The water should reach about halfway up the sides of the cups. This water bath helps the custard cook slowly and evenly.
Step 8
Close the oven door gently. Bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. The custard is ready when the edges are set and the center still has a slight soft wobble when you move the cup.
Step 9
Turn off the oven and open the door slightly. Let the custard cups rest inside for 10 minutes. This gentle cooling helps prevent cracks.
Step 10
Carefully remove the tray from the oven. Lift the cups out of the water and place them on a cooling rack. Let them cool to room temperature.
Step 11
After cooling, place the cups in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the custard firm up and improves the flavor.
Step 12
Serve chilled. You can add berries, a spoon of whipped cream, or a small mint leaf on top for a pretty finish.
Why This Recipe Is Special
This Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients with a rich and elegant result. You do not need flour or complicated tools. Eggs and milk create a natural creamy texture, which makes this dessert feel light yet satisfying.
Another good point is portion control. Each custard cup is a single serving, which helps you enjoy dessert without overeating. Many people like this when they want a sweet treat but still want to be mindful of how much they eat.
The lemon flavor also makes this recipe stand out. Lemon adds brightness and freshness. It balances the sweetness and makes the dessert feel clean on the palate. People who usually find custard too heavy often enjoy the lemon version much more.
This Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe is also beginner friendly. Even if you are new to baking, you can follow the steps and get great results. The slow baking method and water bath make the texture smooth and forgiving.
Extra Tips for Better Taste
Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled juice. Fresh juice gives a brighter and more natural flavor that really improves the final taste.
Warm the milk slightly before mixing. Do not make it hot, just gently warm. This helps the sugar dissolve faster and blend better with the eggs.
Do not overbake the custard. If it cooks too long, the texture can become rubbery. A slight wobble in the center is perfect because it will firm up more while cooling.
Add a small spoon of honey along with the sugar if you like a deeper sweet flavor. Honey and lemon work very well together.
You can also place a few thin fruit slices at the bottom of each cup before pouring the custard mixture. Blueberries or raspberries are great choices and add color and taste.
For a richer version, replace half a cup of milk with light cream. This will make the custard more creamy and smooth.
Chill the custard overnight if possible. The flavor becomes more rounded and delicious the next day.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Lemon Custard Cups Recipe is a wonderful dessert that proves simple cooking can still feel special. With only a few basic ingredients and clear steps, you can create a smooth and creamy lemon dessert that looks beautiful and tastes fresh. It is perfect for family dinners, small gatherings, or a quiet personal treat. Once you make it one time, you will see how easy and reliable it is. This recipe is a lovely way to bring a classic homemade dessert into your kitchen with confidence and joy.
Nutrition Details
Approximate values for the whole recipe and per serving. Recipe makes 6 servings.
Nutrition for whole recipe
Calories about 900
Protein about 36 grams
Fat about 36 grams
Carbohydrates about 108 grams
Sugar about 96 grams
Calcium about 700 milligrams
Nutrition per serving
Calories about 150
Protein about 6 grams
Fat about 6 grams
Carbohydrates about 18 grams
Sugar about 16 grams
Calcium about 115 milligrams
Values can change based on exact ingredients and portion size.