Introduction
Who doesn’t love a creamy, smooth dessert that melts in your mouth? Vanilla custard is one of those sweet treats that never go out of style. Whether you serve it warm or cold, pour it over cake or enjoy it by the spoonful, custard always hits the spot. The best part? You can make vanilla custard right at home using simple ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen.
No fancy tools or complicated steps needed! In this post, you’ll learn how to make the perfect homemade vanilla custard from scratch. And don’t worry – the recipe is super easy to follow, even if it’s your first time making it. Let’s dive right in and make something delicious!
Ingredients – Homemade Vanilla Custard
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make your very own vanilla custard:
- 2 cups (500ml) of milk – Whole milk works best for creaminess.
- 1/2 cup (100g) of sugar – Regular white sugar is perfect.
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch – This thickens the custard.
- 4 large egg yolks – These make the custard rich and smooth.
- 1 tablespoon of butter – Adds extra flavor and shine.
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract – For that sweet vanilla flavor.
- A pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
Step by Step Process – Homemade Vanilla Custard
Now let’s walk through the steps to make this creamy vanilla custard. Take your time and follow each step – you’ll do great!
Step 1: Separate the Eggs
Start by separating the egg yolks from the whites. You only need the egg yolks for this recipe. Put them in a medium bowl and gently whisk them until smooth.
Step 2: Mix the Cornstarch and Sugar
In a separate bowl, mix together the cornstarch and sugar. This helps the cornstarch blend better into the liquid later.
Step 3: Heat the Milk
Pour the milk into a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it’s warm, but not boiling. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally so it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolks while whisking. This is called “tempering” – it keeps the eggs from cooking too fast.
Once mixed, pour everything back into the saucepan. Add the sugar-cornstarch mix and stir well.
Step 5: Cook the Custard
Place the saucepan back on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or whisk. Don’t stop stirring, or it might stick to the bottom.
After about 5–8 minutes, you’ll notice the custard getting thicker. Once it coats the back of your spoon (like pudding), it’s ready!
Step 6: Add Butter and Vanilla
Take the pan off the heat. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Keep stirring until the butter melts and everything is smooth.
Step 7: Let It Cool
You can enjoy the custard warm, or let it cool. To avoid a skin forming on top, press plastic wrap right against the surface of the custard while it cools in the fridge.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Sugars | 22 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 140 mg |
| Sodium | 90 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
Yes, but your custard may not be as creamy. Whole milk gives the best texture and flavor. You can use 2% milk, but try to avoid fat-free if possible.
Q2: What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can use all-purpose flour as a substitute. Use twice the amount – so around 6 tablespoons of flour instead of 3 tablespoons of cornstarch.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, and replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. It will change the flavor a little, but it still tastes good!
Q4: How long does vanilla custard last in the fridge?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Store it in a container with a lid or cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
Q5: Can I freeze custard?
Freezing is not recommended. Custard can change texture when frozen and become watery once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Q6: What can I serve with vanilla custard?
You can pour it over:
- Cakes or brownies
- Fruit pies or tarts
- Fresh berries
- Crumbled cookies
- Or just enjoy it plain!
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a simple and delicious homemade vanilla custard recipe that anyone can make! It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you eat it warm from the pot or chilled with fruit on top, it’s sure to become one of your favorite desserts.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just basic kitchen staples and a little bit of time.
So the next time you’re craving something sweet and cozy, skip the store-bought stuff and whip up this vanilla custard instead. Once you taste the homemade version, you might never go back! Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful.
