Huckleberry-Lemon Custard

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A refreshing lemon custard layered with sweet huckleberries, perfect for light desserts and brunch gatherings, offering a bright citrus flavor with berry sweetness.

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Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon peel

Instructions

  1. Beat eggs with sugar and salt.
  2. Pour the mixture into the top of a double boiler over gently boiling water.
  3. Stir in milk and lemon juice; cook, stirring often, until thickened.
  4. Add grated lemon peel.
  5. Chill the custard.
  6. Layer huckleberries and custard in parfait glasses and chill until ready to serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute huckleberries with blueberries or raspberries if they're not available. Make sure to stir the custard continuously while it cooks to prevent curdling. Adding a pinch of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor profile nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the huckleberry-lemon custard in individual parfait glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor. This dessert pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing herbal tea or can be enjoyed alongside American recipes like M&M'S Brownies for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired temperature. Avoid overheating to maintain the custard's creamy consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Huckleberry-Lemon Custard contains roughly 99 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value).

99 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 1.8g 2% DV
Carbs 19.9g 7% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 7g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 298.5mg 13% DV
Potassium 111.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 1.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 28.3mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 12.2mg 14% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 73.1mg 6% DV
Iron 1.2mg 6% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 make this custard ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard a day in advance. Chill it in the refrigerator, and layer with huckleberries just before serving to keep the layers fresh and vibrant. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

What can I use if I don't have huckleberries?

If huckleberries are unavailable, blueberries or blackberries are excellent substitutes. They provide a similar burst of flavor and color, ensuring your dessert remains delicious and visually appealing.

How do I know when the custard is thick enough?

The custard is done when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clear line when you run your finger through it. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still pourable for layering.

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).

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