There’s something magical about a dessert that requires zero oven time yet delivers maximum indulgence. This No-Bake Custard Cream is creamy, velvety, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. It’s the kind of treat that makes you feel like a pastry chef without all the effort. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dessert for guests or satisfying your sweet tooth on a lazy afternoon, this one’s a keeper. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Custard Cream
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
Perfect as a filling for pastries, a topping for cakes, or simply enjoyed on its own. You can dress it up or keep it simple!
Budget-Friendly
Made with simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No fancy or expensive components required!
Quick and Easy
Minimal effort, maximum reward! With no baking involved, you can whip this up in no time and let the fridge do the rest of the work.
Customizable
Play around with flavors! Add a hint of vanilla, a touch of citrus zest, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in No-Bake Custard Cream
Here’s the magic of this recipe—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:
Milk
The creamy base that brings everything together. Whole milk works best for a rich and velvety texture.
Sugar
Just the right amount of sweetness to balance the custard and bring out its flavors.
Egg Yolks
They give the custard its silky texture and luscious depth. Don’t skip these—they’re key!
Cornstarch
The secret to thickening the custard without making it too heavy. It ensures that perfect spoonable consistency.
Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and a rich aroma that takes this custard to the next level.
Butter
A final touch that makes everything even smoother and more indulgent.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Heat the Milk
In a saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer. Don’t let it boil—gentle heat is the key to a smooth custard.
Whisk the Yolks and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thickened. This step ensures a creamy and well-balanced custard.
Add the Cornstarch
Slowly mix in the cornstarch, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. This will help thicken the custard beautifully.
Temper the Eggs
Gradually add a ladle of the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling and keeps the custard silky.
Cook the Custard
Pour the tempered mixture back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly. As it thickens, you’ll see it transform into a luscious, creamy custard.
Add Butter and Vanilla
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. This step adds extra richness and flavor.
Chill and Serve
Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent skin from forming), and refrigerate until fully chilled. Then, it’s ready to enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4-6
Calories per serving: 220
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on ingredients used.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
How to Serve No-Bake Custard Cream
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve as a topping for cakes, pies, or tarts
- Layer it with fruit and crumbled cookies for a parfait
- Fill eclairs, cream puffs, or doughnuts for a bakery-style treat
- Enjoy it simply with a spoon, straight from the bowl!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- If lumps form, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
- For a chocolate variation, add melted chocolate at the end.
- Let the custard cool slightly before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this custard ahead of time? Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Why did my custard turn out lumpy? It’s likely due to overheating or not whisking enough. Strain it through a sieve to smooth it out.
Can I use a milk substitute? Yes, almond or coconut milk can work, but the texture may be slightly different.
How can I make this dairy-free? Swap butter for a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk.
Can I freeze custard cream? It’s not recommended, as freezing can change the texture and make it grainy.
What if my custard is too thick? Whisk in a little extra milk until you reach the desired consistency.
How do I prevent a skin from forming on top? Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface before refrigerating.
Can I use this as a cake filling? Absolutely! It’s perfect for layer cakes and pastries.
What’s the best way to add flavor variations? Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or citrus zest for a twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Custard Cream is proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes bring the most joy. With its rich, creamy texture and endless versatility, it’s a dessert that fits every occasion. Whether you’re layering it into a fancy pastry or enjoying it by the spoonful, one thing’s for sure—you’ll be coming back for more. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor every silky bite!
Print
No-Bake Custard Cream
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This No-Bake Custard Cream is a rich, velvety, and smooth dessert that requires no oven! Made with milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch, this classic custard is perfect as a filling for cakes, tarts, or served on its own with fresh fruit.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it is hot but not boiling.
- Whisk the Yolks & Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and sugar until pale and slightly thick.
- Add Cornstarch: Sift in the cornstarch and mix well to prevent lumps.
- Temper the Eggs: Slowly pour a small amount of hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Cook the Custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Vanilla & Butter: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter for a silky texture.
- Chill & Serve: Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (touching the surface to prevent skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
- Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer custard.
- For a chocolate version, add 2 tbsp cocoa powder.
- Great as a filling for éclairs, pastries, or layered desserts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: ~200 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 120mg