A great quiche starts with a silky, flavorful custard that binds everything together. Whether you like your quiche rich and decadent or lighter and more everyday-friendly, mastering the custard ratio is the key to a perfect texture—creamy, never rubbery.
The Classic Custard Ratio
The traditional French custard ratio for quiche is simple: 1 egg for every 1/2 cup of cream. This base yields a rich, smooth custard that sets beautifully and holds up to a variety of fillings. For a standard 8-inch quiche, you’ll need about 3 large eggs and 1 1/2 cups of cream.
Dairy Options: Cream, Milk, or Half-and-Half?
You can even mix dairy types depending on what you have on hand.
- Heavy cream gives you the richest flavor and firmest texture.
- Whole milk results in a softer, slightly lighter custard.
- Half-and-half is a great middle ground, offering both richness and a lighter mouthfeel.
Customizing Your Custard
Want a lighter quiche? Use 2% milk and 1 fewer egg. Want it richer? Go all in with cream and maybe an extra yolk. As long as you stay close to the 1 egg per 1/2 cup rule, you have flexibility.
Want more information on picking the right dairy, then check out this post on How to choose dairy for your quiche.
Tips for Smooth, Even Custard
- Whisk thoroughly, but don’t overbeat. You want the eggs and dairy to combine fully without incorporating too much air.
- Season well. Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg can bring your custard to life.
- Strain the custard before pouring it into the shell for the silkiest texture (optional but worth it for a fancy finish).
Mistakes to Avoid
- Too much dairy: It may never set properly.
- Too few eggs: You’ll get a loose, unstable filling.
- Overbaking: This causes curdling and a tough texture. The center should jiggle slightly when you take it out of the oven.
Suggested Quiche Custard Ratio by Pan Size
| Pan Size | Eggs | Dairy (cups) |
|---|---|---|
| 4-inch tart | 1 | 1/2 |
| 6-inch tart | 2 | 1 |
| 8-inch tart | 3 | 1 1/2 |
| 9-inch tart | 4 | 2 |
Use this table as your starting point and adjust based on add-ins and preferences.
Master the custard and your quiche options are endless—from classic Lorraine to veggie-packed creations or single-serve ramekin quiches. Once you get the base right, everything else is just a matter of taste.
