Baked Maple Custards

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 325 degrees.
2. 2
   In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until very hot but not boiling.
3. 3
   Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a fork, being careful to incorporate as little air as possible.
4. 4
   Very gradually whisk in the hot milk.
5. 5
   Whisk in the maple syrup and the vanilla.
6. 6
   Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve and use a spoon to skim off the foam.
7. 7
   Place 6 2/3-cup ceramic ramekins or custard cups in a shallow roasting pan and pour in boiling water to reach halfway up their sides.
8. 8
   Carefully ladle in the custard and bake until just set, about 40 minutes.
9. 9
   Serve warm.