Easy Custard

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Creamy, smooth vanilla custard with rich flavors, perfect for dessert lovers seeking a simple, luscious treat that can be prepared ahead and enjoyed chilled.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 small pkg. instant vanilla pudding
  • 1 pt. half and half
  • 1 Tbsp. vanilla
  • 1/2 gal. milk
  • 1/2 c. sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients for 2 minutes until smooth.
  2. Refrigerate overnight before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For an even creamier custard, consider using whole milk instead of half and half, or substitute with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat for a vegan option. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Make sure to whisk thoroughly to avoid lumps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the custard chilled in individual bowls or cups, topped with fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with Layered Lemon Crumb Bars as a dessert duo. For a delightful brunch, consider serving it alongside fruit salads or pastries.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the custard thickens too much, simply whisk in a splash of milk to restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the consistency once thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Easy Custard contains roughly 1071 calories, with 16g protein, 143g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (49% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1465mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).

1071 kcal 54% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16g 32% DV
Total Fat 18.6g 24% DV
Carbs 143.5g 52% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 114.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1464.6mg 64% DV
Potassium 993.4mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 53.8mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 174.9mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 26.7mg 30% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 632.8mg 49% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use flavored pudding instead of vanilla?

Yes, you can substitute with other flavors like chocolate or banana pudding for a different taste. Just keep in mind that the base flavor of the custard will change accordingly, so choose a flavor that complements your other ingredients.

How can I make this custard healthier?

To make a healthier version, try reducing the sugar to 1/4 cup and using low-fat or unsweetened almond milk. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, adjusting to taste.

Is it possible to make this custard dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and half and half. Additionally, ensure your vanilla pudding mix is dairy-free, as some brands may contain milk derivatives.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →