Naturally Sweetened Apple Custard - Simple Baked Dessert

Prep: 10 minCook: 40 min6 servingsmedium
Naturally Sweetened Apple Custard - Simple Baked Dessert

A wholesome custard dessert that relies on the natural sweetness of apples instead of added sugar. Fresh apples are blended into a smooth sauce and combined with eggs to create a silky, custardy texture with warm nutmeg spice. Perfect for those seeking a lighter dessert option, this custard is best served chilled and makes an elegant finish to any meal. The apple base provides natural fiber and vitamins while the eggs deliver protein for a more satisfying treat.

Ingredients

6 servings
  • 4 cups apples, chopped, skin on
    pears1:1Natural pear sweetness works similarly

    4

    Full guide →
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup egg whites
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    almond extract1:2Use half the amount for almond flavoradds tree_nuts

    3

    Full guide →
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
    cinnamon1:1Provides warm spice with different flavor profile

    4

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  2. 2

    Spray ramekin or custard cups with nonstick cooking spray

  3. 3

    Process or blend apples in high powered blender or food processor until texture is similar to applesauce

  4. 4

    Mix together apple sauce, eggs, egg whites, salt, vanilla and nutmeg in a large bowl

  5. 5

    Pour evenly into ramekins

  6. 6

    Sprinkle with more nutmeg

  7. 7

    Bake for 40 minutes or until a knife comes out clean

  8. 8

    Serve cold

Tips

Tip 1

Use a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties for more complex flavor depth.

Tip 2

Ensure apples are blended completely smooth to avoid lumpy texture in the finished custard.

Tip 3

Test doneness by inserting knife in center - it should come out clean when ready.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate covered for up to 3 days

Make Ahead

Can be made 1 day ahead and chilled

Serve With

Best served cold from refrigerator

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overbake or custard will become rubbery and watery

Watch

Blend apples completely smooth to avoid chunky texture

Substitutions

apples
pears1:1Natural pear sweetness works similarly

4

Full guide →
vanilla extract
almond extract1:2Use half the amount for almond flavoradds tree_nuts

3

Full guide →
nutmeg
cinnamon1:1Provides warm spice with different flavor profile

4

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use different apple varieties?

Yes, any apple variety works well. Sweet apples like Gala or Fuji will make it sweeter, while tart varieties like Granny Smith add complexity.

What if I don't have ramekins?

You can use a single 8x8 baking dish instead. Increase baking time to 45-50 minutes and test for doneness with a knife.

How long will this keep in the refrigerator?

The custard will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture is best within the first 2 days.