How to use an ice water bath

An ice water bath is a great way to cool down custard fast. Instead of chilling in the fridge for several hours, an ice water bath will get the custard cool in about 10 minutes. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1— Fill a large bowl halfway with ice cubes. Cover the ice with cold water.

Step 2— Pour the custard into a bowl that is small enough to fit inside the bowl filled with ice.

Step 3— Place the bowl filled with custard inside the bowl filled with ice, without letting any water into the custard bowl. The ice should hold the top bowl out of the water, but adjust the water level as needed.

Step 4— Frequently stir the custard to release the heat. The more you stir, the quicker the mixture will cool down. When the custard is cool to the touch, you’re done.