| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 295 | 11g | 6g | 47g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 39g | 1g | 6g | 0.3g |
There’s something utterly magical about the Baked Star Apple Custard. This recipe beautifully bridges my Californian upbringing and my Gujarati roots, melding fresh fruit goodness with traditional dessert-making techniques. Each time I prepare this custard, I feel a sense of harmony and connection to my heritage while embracing the vibrant flavors of the West Coast.
An Intersection of Cultures
Growing up, fruit-based desserts were a staple in my home. While Faisal and I both love indulging in classic Indian sweets, we’ve found unique joy in incorporating fruits like apples into our desserts. Star apples, with their delicate, star-like pattern, are not only a visual treat but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. This makes Baked Star Apple Custard not just a delicious choice, but a nutritious one, too. Occasionally, we pair it with a spicy Indian chai or even a light salad for a delightful contrast.
Health Benefits Worth Mentioning
Star apples are a hidden gem in the fruit world. Aside from being delectable, they boast a host of health benefits. They are rich in fiber, aiding in digestion, and packed with vitamin C, which is essential for boosting the immune system. The addition of whole milk in the custard ensures a good dose of calcium for strong bones, and using ground cinnamon and nutmeg not only enriches the flavor but also adds anti-inflammatory properties. I feel good serving this dessert to my family and guests, knowing it’s both indulgent and nutritious.
The use of eggs and cornstarch helps in creating a smooth, creamy texture that’s both filling and gratifying. This custard also makes an excellent complement to other desserts, such as traditional baked custard or even a refreshing fresh fruit tart. Versatile and universally appealing, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings.
Ultimately, Baked Star Apple Custard is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the meeting point between my two worlds, honoring ingredients that tell a story of where I come from and where I am now. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it holds a special place in my heart—and hopefully, it will in yours too.
What You’ll Need
- 6 star apples
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray.
Step Two
Cut the star apples in half and remove the seeds. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh and place it in a bowl. Mash the star apple flesh until it reaches a smooth consistency.
Step Three
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and eggs. Whisk until the mixture turns pale and slightly thickens.
Step Four
Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the egg mixture. Continue to whisk until all the ingredients are well combined.
Step Five
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
Step Six
Fold in the mashed star apple flesh into the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step Seven
Pour the custard mixture into the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary.
Step Eight
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step Nine
Remove the custard from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to fully set.
Step Ten
Serve the baked star apple custard chilled. You can garnish with a sprinkle of additional ground cinnamon or some fresh fruit if desired. Enjoy!
