This classic homemade custard is smooth, creamy, and comforting, made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s a timeless dessert that works beautifully on its own or as a base for other sweet treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This custard is easy to make, requires no special equipment, and comes together quickly on the stovetop. The texture is rich and velvety without being heavy, and the flavor is gently sweet with a hint of vanilla. It’s perfect served warm, chilled, or used in layered desserts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon butter
4 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Directions
- Place the milk, vanilla extract, and butter in a medium saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to gently simmer. Remove from heat before it reaches a boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
- Return the saucepan to low heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve warm, or transfer to a bowl, cover, and allow to cool before chilling.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes
Variations
For a sweeter custard, increase the sugar by up to 1/4 cup.
Stir in mashed banana for a naturally sweet, fruity flavor.
Add crushed pineapple for a refreshing twist.
Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a different aroma.
Use part cream and part milk for an even richer custard.
Storage/Reheating
Allow the custard to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth texture. Avoid boiling.
FAQs
What makes custard thicken?
Custard thickens mainly because of the eggs, with cornstarch providing extra stability and a smooth texture.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but the custard will be less rich and creamy compared to using whole milk.
Why did my custard turn lumpy?
This usually happens if the heat is too high or the egg mixture is added too quickly without constant whisking.
Can I serve custard warm?
Yes, custard can be served warm or chilled, depending on your preference.
How do I know when the custard is done?
It’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you run your finger through it.
Can I make this custard ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until needed.
Is cornstarch necessary?
It helps stabilize the custard and makes it more forgiving, but traditional custards can be made without it.
Can I freeze custard?
Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly after thawing.
How can I flavor this custard differently?
You can add citrus zest, cinnamon, or nutmeg while heating the milk for extra flavor.
What can I serve with custard?
Custard pairs well with fresh fruit, cakes, pastries, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Conclusion
This simple custard recipe is a dependable, comforting dessert that proves how a few basic ingredients can create something truly special. Whether enjoyed plain or customized with your favorite additions, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Print
Simple Custard
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic, creamy homemade custard made with milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla—perfect served warm, chilled, or layered into other desserts.
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Place the milk, vanilla extract, and butter in a medium saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to gently simmer. Remove from heat before it reaches a boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
- Return the saucepan to low heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Continue cooking over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and serve warm, or transfer to a bowl, cover, and allow to cool before chilling.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the richest, creamiest texture.
- For a thicker custard, cook slightly longer or increase cornstarch slightly.
- To avoid lumps, whisk constantly and don’t overheat.
- Chill in individual cups for an easy make-ahead dessert.
- Add cinnamon or citrus zest for extra flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
