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Baked New England Grape-Nuts Custard Pudding

This baked New England Grape-Nuts custard pudding is a comforting dessert with a creamy texture and warm spices. Perfect for family gatherings and chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, New England
Calories: 225
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Grape-Nuts cereal
  • 4 cups whole milk Can substitute with 2% milk or half-and-half.
  • 5 large eggs
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons vanilla extract Almond extract can be used for a different flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Can substitute with light brown sugar.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Plus more for dusting.
  • 1 pinch freshly grated nutmeg For garnishing.
  • butter as needed butter, for the baking dish Generously grease the baking dish.
  • boiling-hot water boiling-hot water, for the water bath Used to create a water bath during baking.
Optional Toppings
  • whipped cream For serving if desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Set your oven to 350°F. Prepare a kettle of water until it is just under boiling for the water bath.
  2. Generously butter a 9x9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish.
Soaking the Cereal
  1. Place Grape-Nuts in a large bowl and scald the milk by heating it until steaming, not boiling.
  2. Remove 1/2 cup of the hot milk and set aside, then pour the rest over the cereal and let it soak for 5 minutes.
Mixing Custard Base
  1. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla, sugar, salt, and cinnamon until frothy.
Tempering Eggs
  1. Slowly whisk the reserved hot milk into the egg mixture, adding it a tablespoon at a time.
  2. Stir the egg mixture into the soaked cereal and milk until well blended.
Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into the buttered baking dish, dust with nutmeg and extra cinnamon.
  2. Place the dish inside a large roasting pan and pour in hot water until it comes about 1 inch up the sides.
  3. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the edges pull away slightly and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Lift the dish out of the water bath and let cool completely on a rack.
  2. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve plain or with whipped cream.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh Grape-Nuts cereal stored in a cool, dry place. Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.