No matter what the occasion or day is, desserts are simply the best part of a meal that has the ability to put a smile on everyone’s face. If you are a fan of having something sweet after a meal, this article is for you. While you can open a box placed near you, nothing can be as satisfying as creamy custard.
Custard is one of the most versatile desserts ever. Just the way an artist treats a blank canvas, the creamy dessert custard opens so many possibilities for experimenting for a chef. If you love to eat mouth-melting dessert, here are three types of custard that you can easily whip up. As a bonus, read on to get pro tips to perfect a batch of custard at your home.
Vanilla Custard
Vanilla custard is called classic for a reason. Its creamy texture with a subtle, sweet profile just makes it irresistible. It is not just unbeatable as is, but it can also be added to many other desserts as a filling.
Ingredients:
- 500ml whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 75 gram granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat some milk, add the split vanilla bean, and let it simmer.
- In the meantime, whisk egg yolks, sugar and salt till fluffy.
- Gradually add the hot milk to the fluffy mixture. Let this simmer, but stir constantly till the custard thickens.
- Strain the custard to get rid of any lumps and serve.
Tips:
- If you prefer a richer custard, use heavy cream instead of whole milk.
- Temper the egg yolks by gradually adding the hot milk to prevent it from scrambling.
Lemon Custard
Lemon curd or custard adds a zesty twist to the classic vanilla custard. You can use it for luscious fillings of tarts and pies or as a garnish.
Ingredients:
- 500ml whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- 75 gram granulated sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Heat some milk with lemon zest, but don’t let it boil.
- Whisk egg yolks, sugar and salt. Add the hot milk and keep stirring till the custard thickens.
- Turn off the heat and add lemon juice. Strain the custard and refrigerate before serving.
Tips:
- Before turning off the heat, taste the custard to check the sweet and sour taste.
- Serve lemon custard with chopped berries or seasonal fruits.
Chocolate Custard
If you are a chocoholic, you’re going to love this variation of vanilla custard.
Ingredients:
- 500ml whole milk
- 100g dark chocolate
- 4 egg yolks
- 75 gram granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate using a double boiler or microwave.
- Heat some milk and add the melted chocolate.
- Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and salt. Add the mixture to the simmering chocolatey milk.
- Keep stirring. Once the custard reaches your desired consistency, strain it.
- Refrigerate and let it set before serving.
Tips:
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavour.
- Garnish the chocolate custard with whipped cream and chocolate shavings to make it super indulgent.