This Vanilla Egg Custard is a silky, smooth, and light dessert made with simple ingredients. Steamed to perfection, it offers a delicate texture and a refreshing vanilla flavor, perfect for any occasion. With minimal effort, this custard can be prepared ahead and served chilled for an elegant treat.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- Eggs: 3
- Sugar: 1/3 cup
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Milk: 1 cup
- Vanilla Essence: 1 teaspoon
- Oil: For greasing the mold
Directions:
- Whisk the eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk 3 eggs until well beaten.
- Add sugar and salt: Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the sugar dissolves.
- Add milk and vanilla: Stir in 1 cup milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla essence. Mix until fully combined.
- Prepare the mold: Grease a 6-inch mold or heatproof dish with oil to prevent sticking.
- Strain the mixture: Strain the custard mixture through a fine sieve into the greased mold. This removes lumps and foam, ensuring a smooth custard.
- Pop the bubbles: Gently pop any bubbles on the surface to achieve a smooth top after steaming.
- Steam the custard: Bring water to a boil in a steamer. Place the mold in the steamer, cover, and steam over medium heat for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the custard is ready.
- Cool and refrigerate: Once cooked, remove the mold from the steamer and let the custard cool at room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set fully.
- Serve: Slice or scoop and serve chilled.
Serving Suggestions:
- Drizzle with caramel sauce or honey for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh fruits like berries, or sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting treat.
- Serve as a light dessert after a heavy meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Strain the mixture before steaming for a smooth, lump-free custard.
- Avoid over-steaming, as this can make the custard rubbery.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste.
- Use whole milk or cream for a richer texture.
- If you don’t have a steamer, use a water bath by placing the mold in a large pot with a lid and adding boiling water halfway up the sides of the mold.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
- Milk: Adds calcium, supporting bone health.
- Low in fat: This custard is relatively light compared to baked custards.
- Simple ingredients: Free from artificial additives and preservatives.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-friendly: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-free: Made with naturally gluten-free ingredients.
- Nut-free: Safe for those with nut allergies.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store the custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the custard’s texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple and quick: Easy to prepare with basic ingredients.
- Light and refreshing: Perfect as a dessert on hot days.
- Customizable: Add flavors like caramel, chocolate, or fruit to make it your own.
- Make-ahead: Convenient for gatherings or meal prep.
Conclusion:
This Vanilla Egg Custard is a light, creamy, and refreshing dessert that’s easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. Whether for a casual family meal or a special occasion, this steamed custard is sure to impress. Its smooth texture and subtle vanilla flavor make it a timeless classic and a must-try dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different milk in this recipe? Yes, almond milk, soy milk, or evaporated milk work well, but the texture may vary.
- How do I know when the custard is done steaming? Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s done. If it’s still liquid, steam for a few more minutes.
- Can I add other flavors? Absolutely! Try almond extract, cinnamon, or citrus zest for added flavor.
- How do I avoid bubbles in the custard? Strain the mixture and pop any surface bubbles before steaming.
- Can I make this custard in the oven? Yes, bake it in a water bath at 160°C (325°F) for 30-40 minutes, or until set.
- What’s the best way to serve this custard? Serve chilled with toppings like caramel, honey, or fresh fruit.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare and refrigerate up to 2 days in advance.
- What should I do if the custard looks curdled? Lower the steaming temperature next time and stir the mixture thoroughly before steaming.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger mold and increase steaming time by 5-10 minutes.
- What type of mold works best? Heatproof dishes, ramekins, or small cake molds are ideal.