Air Fryer Egg Custard

A rich, sweet, and vanilla-infused dessert with a silky, smooth, and jiggly texture. This very easy recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring only 5 minutes of hands-on time.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/3 cup (66g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 2 large eggs, 2 large egg yolks, and sugar. Whisk vigorously for about 1 minute until the mixture is light in color and slightly frothy.
2. In a microwave-safe bowl or a small saucepan, heat the whole milk until it is hot but not boiling (steam rising and small bubbles forming around the edges).
3. While continuously whisking the egg mixture, slowly pour a thin, steady stream of the hot milk into the bowl. Start with a few tablespoons to warm the eggs gently, then gradually pour in the rest while whisking constantly.
4. Whisk in the vanilla extract and salt. For a silkiest texture, pour the custard mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a liquid measuring cup to catch any cooked egg bits or lumps.
5. Evenly divide the custard mixture among 4 ramekins. Use a spoon to pop any foam on the surface to avoid bubbles. Sprinkle the top of each custard with a generous pinch of freshly grated nutmeg.
6. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) for 3 minutes. Carefully place the ramekins into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Air fry for 14 to 18 minutes until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
7. Using oven mitts, remove the ramekins from the air fryer and place them on a wire cooling rack. Let them cool for at least 15 minutes at room temperature. For best flavor and texture, chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.

Notes

Air fryers vary in power; check at the 12-minute mark and cover with foil if browning too quickly. Do not overcook, as the custard will set as it cools. A water bath is not necessary, but adding 1/4 cup of water to the bottom of the basket can prevent cracking in powerful air fryers. Flavor variations include almond extract, orange zest, or a caramelized brown sugar top. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; do not freeze as the texture becomes watery and grainy.