Ingredients
Custard Ingredients
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 4 large egg yolks
- 2 ¾ cups whole milk
- ¾ cup half and half (or light cream)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Egg Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a tiny pinch of salt. Then add the egg yolks, whole milk, and half and half (or light cream). Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and slowly heat the egg mixture while continuously whisking. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to boil—this usually takes about 15 minutes. Once boiling, keep whisking and allow it to bubble gently for 1 minute to thicken.
- Finish with Butter and Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the butter and vanilla extract until the butter melts and blends completely into the custard.
- Cool the Custard: Pour the custard into a medium bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming while it cools. Let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes.
- Chill Until Set: Refrigerate the custard for at least 2 hours or until fully chilled and set, perfect for serving as a smooth, creamy dessert.
Notes
- Whisk continuously while cooking to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth custard.
- Use fresh eggs for best flavor and texture.
- Covering the custard with plastic wrap directly on its surface prevents a skin from forming.
- Can be flavored with other extracts like almond or enhanced with a cinnamon stick during cooking.
- Ideal served chilled on its own or as a base for fruit tarts and trifles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
