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Savory Baked Cheese Custard with Herb Crust

A luscious, golden-baked cheese custard with a crisp herb-infused crust. This dish is rich, creamy, and perfect as a centerpiece for brunch or an elegant appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Crust:
  • 1 cup crushed savory biscuits or breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • For the Custard Filling:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprig (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 7-inch springform pan or round baking dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed savory biscuits, Parmesan, melted butter, and dried thyme. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
  3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, cream, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth. Stir in Gruyère and cheddar.
  4. Pour the custard mixture over the pre-baked crust.
  5. Place the pan in a larger baking dish and fill the outer dish with hot water halfway up the side of the pan (water bath).
  6. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the center is just set and the top is golden brown.
  7. Cool for 10–15 minutes before removing from the pan. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary.

Notes

  • Use a water bath to ensure even baking and prevent cracking.
  • For a stronger herb flavor, add fresh chopped thyme or rosemary directly into the custard.
  • This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked cheese custard, savory custard, brunch recipe, herb crust, vegetarian appetizer