This creamy custard recipe is the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. Perfectly smooth and velvety, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in no time, delivering a rich, satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with fruits, pies, or cakes. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a special occasion, this custard will always impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thicker custard)
Instructions:
- Begin by heating the milk and heavy cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from burning. Heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling. Once warm, remove it from the heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes pale and smooth. This will take about 2 minutes of whisking.
- If you prefer a thicker custard, add the cornstarch to the egg mixture and whisk until fully combined.
- Gradually pour a small amount of the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while whisking continuously. This helps to temper the eggs and prevents them from curdling. Slowly add the rest of the hot milk while continuing to whisk.
- Once fully combined, pour the entire custard mixture back into the saucepan. Place the saucepan back on low to medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk, ensuring the custard does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Continue cooking the custard, stirring gently for 5-7 minutes, until it thickens to your desired consistency. The custard is ready when it coats the back of a spoon, and when you run your finger through the custard, it leaves a clean line.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Pour the creamy custard through a fine sieve or strainer into a clean bowl to remove any bits of cooked egg, ensuring a smooth, velvety texture.
- Allow the custard to cool for a few minutes before transferring it to individual serving dishes. If you prefer cold custard, place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
- Serve as a dessert on its own, or pour it over fruit, pies, or cakes for an extra touch of sweetness. Garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or grated chocolate for added flair.
Conclusion:
This creamy custard recipe is a timeless dessert that delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience every time. Its smooth texture and sweet, comforting flavor make it perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a rich, luscious treat that will quickly become a favorite in your home.