This easy no-bake dessert is a creamy, smooth custard-like treat, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert. It’s simple to make and requires no oven, making it ideal for warm weather or when you want a quick sweet fix.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, milk, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
- Add Egg Yolks: In a separate small bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk the egg yolks into the milk mixture in the saucepan.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle simmer. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s very thick and smooth.
- Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool Slightly: Let the custard cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes.
- Pour into Serving Dishes: Pour the custard into individual serving dishes or a larger serving bowl.
- Chill: Cover the dishes with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until set.
- Garnish (Optional): Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon over the top of the custard.
- Serve: Serve the chilled creamy custard dessert.
Tips and Variations:
- Flavor Variations: You can add other flavor extracts like almond, lemon, or orange to the custard.
- Chocolate Custard: For a chocolate version, melt 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder with the milk and condensed milk mixture.
- Fruit Puree: You can fold in fruit puree (like mango or strawberry) after the custard has cooled slightly.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Top the custard with whipped cream before serving for an extra decadent treat.
- Graham Cracker Crust: For a more substantial dessert, you can layer the custard over a graham cracker crust.
- Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve after cooking.
Enjoy your simple and delicious No-Bake Creamy Custard Dessert!