Introduction
Indulging in a creamy, zesty custard can be a delightful experience. This recipe blends the richness of whole milk with the refreshing flavor of lemon, creating a dessert that balances sweetness and tanginess beautifully. Perfect for any occasion, this custard can be served warm or chilled, and customizable with delicious toppings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
400 ml whole milk
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla sugar (or regular sugar + a drop of vanilla extract)
2 egg yolks
40g white sugar
15g cornstarch
Juice of 1 lemon
100g sweetened condensed milk
Optional toppings: cinnamon, cocoa powder, dark chocolate shavings.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Now that you have your ingredients and timeline set, follow the steps to create this delicious lemon custard that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Warm the Milk
In a saucepan, pour in the milk. Add the lemon zest and vanilla sugar. Heat on low, ensuring the mixture warms without boiling, allowing the lemon flavor to infuse into the milk.
Mix Eggs and Sugar
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with sugar until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. In another small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a spoonful of cold milk until fully dissolved.
Temper the Eggs
Slowly pour a small amount of the warmed milk into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to prevent the eggs from curdling. Gradually add the remaining milk, still whisking.
Cook the Custard
Return the combined mixture to the saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency. This process may take a few minutes; patience is key.
Add Flavorings
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk until fully incorporated, enhancing the custard with a tangy sweetness.
Serve
Pour the custard into serving bowls or jars. Allow it to cool slightly, or refrigerate if a chilled dessert is preferred. For an extra smooth texture, strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve before serving.
Optional Toppings
Before serving, garnish with a dusting of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or dark chocolate shavings as desired.
Notes
Milk Temperature
Make sure the milk is warm but not boiling to avoid scrambling the eggs when combined.
Consistency Check
The custard should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon before removing it from the heat.
Custard Storage
Keep any leftover custard covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Topping Suggestions
Feel free to customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences, adding fruit, nuts, or whipped cream as alternatives.
Cook techniques
Warming Milk
Gently heat the milk on low to infuse flavors without boiling, which can alter the texture.
Whisking Egg Yolks
Whisk together egg yolks and sugar until light and fluffy to incorporate air for a smoother custard.
Tempering Eggs
Slowly mix warmed milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.
Cooking Custard
Cook the custard mixture over low heat, stirring constantly for even thickening and to prevent sticking to the pan.
Incorporating Flavorings
Remove from heat before adding lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk to maintain the fresh flavors.
Serving Tips
Pour into bowls or jars and cool slightly; straining through a sieve can enhance texture for a smoother finish.
Garnishing
Add optional toppings like cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings for an elevated presentation and taste.
FAQ
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
While you can, whole milk provides a creamier texture and richer flavor for the custard.
What can I use instead of vanilla sugar?
Regular sugar mixed with a drop of vanilla extract works as a suitable substitution.
How do I know when the custard is done?
The custard should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear line when you run your finger through it.
Is it necessary to strain the custard?
Straining is optional but helps achieve a smoother consistency by removing any lumps.
Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, evaporated milk mixed with sugar can be used as an alternative, but the sweetness level may vary.
Conclusion
This creamy lemon custard offers a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making it a satisfying dessert option. The infusion of lemon zest and the richness of sweetened condensed milk elevate this simple custard into a refreshing treat. With optional toppings like cinnamon, cocoa powder, or dark chocolate shavings, you can customize each serving to enhance its presentation and taste. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this custard is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Tart
Create a classic lemon tart using a buttery pastry crust filled with a mixture of lemon juice, zest, eggs, and sugar, then bake until set for a striking dessert.
Lemon Mousse
Transform the basic custard into a light and airy lemon mousse by folding in whipped cream to add volume and a fluffy texture.
Lemon Panna Cotta
Infuse heavy cream with lemon juice and zest, then combine with gelatin for a creamy, wobbly dessert perfect for serving chilled with fruit.
Lemon Rice Pudding
Make a comforting rice pudding with whole milk, rice, saccharin, and lemon zest, offering a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Coconut Lemon Custard
Substitute half of the whole milk with coconut milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical version of the lemon custard.
Lemon Cheesecake Parfaits
Layer the lemon custard with crushed graham crackers and cream cheese for a quick and delightful cheesecake parfait.
Zesty Lemon Soufflé
Use the lemon custard to create a delicate soufflé, incorporating whipped egg whites for a light and airy dessert that rises beautifully when baked.
