Our Vanilla Custard Delight brings a touch of elegance to every dining table, featuring a luxuriously creamy texture and the aromatic essence of pure vanilla. This dessert is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, perfect for those who cherish subtle sweetness and refined flavors.
The meticulous preparation of this custard ensures every spoonful is silky smooth, providing an exquisite dessert experience that soothes and satisfies. Ideal for any occasion, whether a cozy family dinner or a sophisticated gathering, this custard is sure to impress with its delightful flavor and velvety texture.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 750 ml (3 cups) milk
- 135 g (2/3 cup) sugar
- 9 egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
Directions:
- Prepare the Custard: In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat until it is warm but not boiling.
- Mix Sugar and Egg Yolks: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar and egg yolks until the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Add Corn Starch: Add the corn starch to the egg yolk mixture and whisk until well combined.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Chill and Serve: Transfer to serving dishes or a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours or until set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled, garnished with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes | Kcal: 390 | Servings: 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simplicity: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, this custard is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only basic cooking skills.
- Flexibility: The custard serves as a versatile base that can be enjoyed as is or embellished with numerous toppings such as fresh berries, caramel sauce, or chocolate shavings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dessert is perfect for preparing in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as it chills, making it a stress-free option for entertaining.
Health Benefits of Vanilla Custard
While indulgent, the Vanilla Custard Delight also packs a nutritional punch:
- Rich in Protein: Each serving contains a considerable amount of eggs, a high-quality protein source vital for muscle repair and growth.
- Provides Energy: The sugar and milk in the custard are excellent energy sources, making this dessert not only tasty but also energizing.
- Essential Nutrients: Milk provides calcium and potassium, which are crucial for bone health and blood pressure regulation.
Culinary Tips and Tricks
- Achieving the Perfect Texture: To ensure your custard is velvety and smooth, temper the eggs carefully by gradually adding the warm milk to avoid cooking the eggs too quickly.
- Flavor Variations: While vanilla is a classic, feel free to experiment with other extracts like almond or coconut for a different twist.
- Serving Suggestions: This custard can be served in individual ramekins for a personal touch or in a large dish to be shared. It pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine or a cup of bold, aromatic coffee.
Sustainability and Sourcing
When preparing the Vanilla Custard Delight, consider using ingredients that are organic and locally sourced:
- Milk and Eggs: Choose organic milk and eggs to ensure that the ingredients are free from unwanted antibiotics and hormones. Supporting local farms also promotes sustainability and freshness.
- Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla extract rather than artificial flavors to get the best taste and to avoid synthetic ingredients. If available, sourcing fair-trade vanilla can also support ethical farming practices.
