This no-bake lemon vanilla custard is a delightful treat you can whip up in just five minutes! With its refreshing lemon zest and smooth, creamy texture, it’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Ideal for any occasion, this dessert combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the rich sweetness of vanilla and condensed milk, creating a harmonious balance that you’ll never tire of enjoying.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling time)
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 400 ml (13.5 fl oz) milk (1 2/3 cups)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 40 g (1.4 oz) sugar (1/3 cup)
- 15 g (0.5 oz) cornstarch (2 tablespoons)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) condensed milk (1/3 cup)
- Cinnamon, cocoa, or chocolate for decoration
Directions:
- Prepare the Milk Base:
- Pour the milk into a saucepan and add the lemon zest and vanilla sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to boil.
- Create the Custard:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined.
- Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
- Cool and Combine:
- Remove the custard from the heat and let it cool completely.
- Once cooled, add the lemon juice and condensed milk to the custard.
- Beat the mixture until it is thick and creamy.
- Chill and Serve:
- Transfer the custard to serving dishes and sprinkle with your choice of cinnamon, cocoa, or grated chocolate.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled with fresh berries or fruit slices.
- Pair with a biscotti or a slice of pound cake.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh touch.
Cooking Tips:
- Stir constantly to avoid lumps in your custard.
- Add the hot milk gradually to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- Let the custard chill thoroughly to enhance its texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Calcium from the milk.
- Vitamin C from the lemon.
- Protein from the eggs and condensed milk.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy and eggs, unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies.
- Gluten-free, suitable for gluten-free diets.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 24g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 70mg
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Not suitable for freezing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Incredibly quick and easy to make.
- Delivers a rich, indulgent flavor.
- Refreshing combination of lemon and vanilla.
- No-bake method makes it hassle-free.
Conclusion:
This no-bake lemon vanilla custard is a go-to recipe for any occasion when you need a quick, delicious dessert. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, it’s a delightful way to end any meal. Enjoy the creamy texture and zesty flavor that will keep you coming back for more!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
- Yes, but the custard may be slightly less creamy.
2. Can I substitute the condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative?
- Yes, use a dairy-free condensed milk substitute.
3. How do I prevent the custard from curdling?
- Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture while constantly whisking.
4. Can I use lemon extract instead of lemon zest and juice?
- Yes, but fresh zest and juice provide a better flavor.
5. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
- Yes, it can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
6. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
- You can use arrowroot powder or potato starch as a substitute.
7. How do I know when the custard is thick enough?
- It should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when you run a finger through it.
8. Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, simply double all the ingredients and follow the same steps.
9. What can I use for decoration if I don’t have cinnamon, cocoa, or chocolate?
- You can use fresh fruit, mint leaves, or edible flowers.
10. Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
- Yes, use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Adjust the amount to taste.