Stirred Custard
A smooth, creamy stirred custard with vanilla flavor, perfect for a light dessert or topping, suitable for those seeking a gentle, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the eggs, sugar, and salt in a double boiler.
- Gradually stir in the scalded milk.
- Cook over hot water until the mixture coats the spoon.
- Add vanilla and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother custard, strain the mixture through a fine sieve before chilling. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute; however, this may alter the texture. Ensure the milk is scalded but not boiling to prevent curdling. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stirred custard chilled or warm, topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Oven Pancakes or can be used as a filling for cakes like Chiffon Pumpkin Pie. Consider serving it alongside a light dessert for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to uneven heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stirred Custard contains roughly 586 calories, with 9g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
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 whole eggs instead of slightly beaten eggs?
Using whole eggs instead of slightly beaten eggs can yield a richer custard, but be cautious as the texture may become denser. If you prefer a lighter custard, stick with the slightly beaten eggs as the recipe suggests.
What can I do if my custard curdles during cooking?
If your custard curdles, remove it from the heat immediately and try to salvage it by blending it with an immersion blender. If it’s too far gone, you may need to start over with fresh ingredients.
How can I enhance the flavor of the custard?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist, or infuse the milk with cinnamon or citrus zest before cooking. Vanilla beans can also offer a more intense flavor than extract.
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).