Custard for One Recipe
Introduction
This simple custard recipe is perfect for a single serving, offering a creamy and comforting dessert that’s quick to make. With its smooth texture and delicate vanilla flavor, it’s a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until tiny bubbles form around the edges, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir often to prevent scorching.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, stir the egg yolk and sugar together until well combined. Add the cornstarch and stir until smooth.
- Step 3: Slowly pour the hot milk into the bowl with the egg mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. This keeps the egg from cooking too quickly.
- Step 4: Once fully combined, pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
- Step 5: Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick and smooth, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla.
- Step 6: Pour the custard into a bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, then refrigerate for about 2 hours.
Tips & Variations
- Use a low heat and constant whisking to avoid lumps or curdling for a silky smooth custard.
- For a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with cream or add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, use almond or oat milk, but the texture may be slightly thinner.
Storage
Store the custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir if needed. This custard is best enjoyed chilled and is not recommended for reheating, as it can affect the texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this custard without egg yolks?
Egg yolks are essential for thickening and giving custard its creamy texture. Without them, the custard won’t set properly and will lose its characteristic richness.
Why is it important to whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture slowly?
Pouring the milk slowly while whisking tempers the eggs, preventing them from cooking too fast and scrambling. This step ensures a smooth and creamy custard.
PrintCustard for One Recipe
This Custard for One recipe is a simple and delicious single-serving dessert made with whole milk, egg yolk, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. It’s creamy, smooth, and perfect for satisfying a small sweet craving with minimal ingredients and effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Western
Ingredients
Ingredients
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg yolk
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Warm the milk: In a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, gently warm the milk until tiny bubbles form around the edges, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent the milk from scorching on the bottom of the pan.
- Combine egg yolk and sugar: In a medium bowl, stir together the egg yolk and granulated sugar until fully combined. Add the cornstarch and stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Temper the egg mixture: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly. This gradual process prevents the egg yolk from cooking too fast and curdling.
- Return to heat: Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan.
- Cook custard: Over medium heat, whisk the mixture continuously until it thickens and becomes smooth, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Chill: Pour the custard into a bowl, then press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for about 2 hours until fully chilled and set.
Notes
- Whisk constantly when cooking to avoid lumps and prevent burning.
- Pressing plastic wrap directly on the custard surface prevents a skin from forming.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
- Ensure slow integration of hot milk into the egg mixture to avoid curdling.
- The custard can be served chilled with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Keywords: custard, single serving dessert, easy custard recipe, stovetop custard, vanilla custard
