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Vanilla Custard Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 130 reviews

This classic Vanilla Custard recipe creates a silky smooth, creamy dessert perfect for enjoying on its own or as a base for other sweet treats. Made with whole milk, egg yolks, sugar, and infused with pure vanilla, it’s a luscious and comforting custard that sets beautifully after chilling.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Base

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large egg yolks, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, diced

Instructions

  1. Heat milk and vanilla: In a heavy bottom medium saucepan, gently heat 2 cups of whole milk with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste until it reaches a low simmer with small bubbles forming around the edges. Avoid boiling.
  2. Mix dry ingredients and egg yolks: In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a whisk attachment or a large mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup sugar, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed. Add 4 large egg yolks and whisk until the mixture turns pale yellow.
  3. Temper the eggs with milk: Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking at low speed. This gradual mixing prevents the eggs from scrambling and avoids froth formation.
  4. Cook the custard: Transfer the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Stir constantly with a whisk to prevent scorching and cook until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  5. Add butter and finish: Remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter until fully incorporated, adding richness and a smooth finish.
  6. Cool and cover: Pour the custard into a clean bowl and cover with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. For quicker setting, portion into small ramekins or bowls.
  7. Chill: Refrigerate the custard for at least 3 hours and up to 2 days to allow it to set and develop flavor.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Once chilled, serve as is or use as a base for desserts. Share your experience and feedback in the comments or ratings.

Notes

  • Use room temperature egg yolks to help achieve a smooth texture without curdling.
  • Stir constantly when cooking to avoid lumps and prevent the custard from burning on the bottom.
  • Pressing plastic wrap directly on the custard’s surface prevents an undesirable skin from forming.
  • This custard can be flavored with bourbon or other extracts as desired by adding them with the butter.
  • Chill time is essential for the custard to properly set and thicken.

Keywords: vanilla custard, homemade custard, creamy dessert, easy dessert, classic custard

Find it online: https://yumwithmia.com/vanilla-custard-recipe/