1/2 c. sugar
2 1/2 tbsp. water
3 3/4 c. milk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
3/4 c. sugar
5 eggs
4 egg yolks

In a small saucepan, bring to a boil 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 1/2 tablespoons water, until sugar dissolves completely and liquid is clear. Continue to boil until sugar turns a caramel brown (3 to 5 minutes).

Immediately pour the hot caramel into a 6 cup souffle dish and turn in all directions to film bottom and sides. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Heat milk to simmering.

Meanwhile, beat the eggs and yolks. Gradually beat 3/4 cup sugar. When mixture is light and foamy, beat in milk and vanilla. Pour into prepared dish. Set in a hot water bath and bake for 40 minutes.