Homemade Vanilla Custard Recipe
This Homemade Vanilla Custard Recipe is silky, smooth, and gently sweet. Made with milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cornstarch, it’s a simple classic that can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup white sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Gather all required ingredients before beginning to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Heat the Milk Mixture:
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the whole milk, vanilla extract, and butter. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer. Remove from heat before it comes to a full boil to prevent scalding.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, white sugar, and cornstarch until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Combine the Mixtures:
- Return the saucepan to low heat. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly to ensure the eggs do not curdle. Continue whisking gently.
Cook the Custard:
- Cook the combined mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This will take approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the custard to separate.
Serve or Store:
- Once thickened, the custard may be served warm immediately. Alternatively, transfer it to a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap (placing it directly against the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming), and allow it to cool before refrigerating. Chill completely if a cold custard is preferred.
Notes
To make this Homemade Vanilla Custard Recipe gluten-free, ensure you use a certified gluten-free cornstarch. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur during processing. Always check labels to be certain.