quick and easy custard recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best quick and easy custard recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my quick and easy custard recipe that has been a staple in our household for years. This recipe is a classic, and it’s easy to see why it’s been around for so long. The first time I made custard was when I was a teenager, and my mom taught me the basic technique of tempering the eggs.

It’s a simple process that requires a bit of patience, but the end result is well worth it. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve experimented with different flavor combinations and ingredients to make this recipe my own. I love how versatile custard can be – from sweet desserts to savory side dishes.

My family loves it when I serve custard as a topping for pies or cakes, and it’s also a great way to get some extra protein into their diets. One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make ahead of time. You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions like holidays and family gatherings. The key to making great custard is all about the technique – tempering the eggs is crucial to preventing scrambled eggs. If you’re new to making custard, don’t be afraid to practice a few times until you get the hang of it.

And if you’re looking for a shortcut, you can always use pre-made custard powder or mix-ins like vanilla or coffee. Despite its rich history, this recipe remains a beloved favorite in our household. We love serving custard at family gatherings and special occasions because it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

In addition to its rich flavor, custard is also incredibly versatile. You can top it with fresh fruit, nuts, or even candy pieces for added texture and flavor. Overall, this quick and easy custard recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious dessert or side dish that’s sure to impress.

Quick and Easy Custard

4.6 from 637 votes

This silky vanilla custard comes together in minutes with simple pantry staples. It is perfect for a quick dessert or as a base for trifles and fruit tarts.

Prep Time5 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Custard

2 cups whole milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3 large egg yolks
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm 1 1/2 cups of the milk and the sugar, stirring occasionally, until small bubbles appear around the edge, about 3 minutes.
2Do not let it boil.
3In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, salt, and the remaining 1/2 cup cold milk until smooth and no lumps remain.
4The mixture should be pale and slightly thick.
5Slowly pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the yolks.
6Then pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining hot milk, whisking continuously.
7Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard thickens and just begins to bubble, about 3 to 4 minutes.
8It should coat the back of a spoon and hold a clear line when you run your finger through it.
9Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract.
10Immediately strain the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
11Let cool for 5 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
12Refrigerate until chilled, about 1 hour, or serve warm.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Whisk
Fine-mesh strainer
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 155mg🧂Sodium: 95mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 22g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a richer custard, substitute half the milk with heavy cream. Stir constantly while cooking to avoid scorching. The custard will thicken further as it cools.

Watch Video Of How Quick and Easy Custard Works

This quick and easy custard recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving it as a dessert or side dish at family gatherings or special events. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can top it with fresh fruit, nuts, or even candy pieces for added texture and flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Quick and Custard

Q: What type of milk should I use for this recipe?

Cow’s milk is our go-to choice for this recipe, but you can also use almond milk or other non-dairy alternatives if you prefer.

Q: Can I use pre-made custard powder instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use pre-made custard powder as a substitute in this recipe.

Q: How do I prevent scrambled eggs when making custard?

The key to preventing scrambled eggs is tempering the eggs properly – slowly adding them to the hot milk while stirring constantly.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the custard mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Q: What are some good flavor combinations for this recipe?

Some popular flavor combinations include vanilla extract and cinnamon sticks, coffee grounds and chocolate chips, or lemon zest and honey.

Similar Posts