Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place 1 cup sugar and water in heavy saucepan. Heat over low heat until it becomes clear. Raise heat and cook until golden brown. Swirl pan rather than stirring to keep clear. Pour small amount of mixture into 6 custard cups and spread evenly over bottom. Scald together milk, vanilla and 1/4 cup sugar. Beat eggs into bowl and gradually add milk in steady stream. Beat vigorously. Strain mixture into prepared cups. Place custard cups into large baking dish. Add enough boiling water to baking dish to reach half way up sides of custard cups. Bake 30 to 45 minutes. Chill. Serve inverted onto serving plate.

Makes 6 servings