Custard, a traditional dessert, is loved for its rich taste and creamy texture. Custard is traditionally made with cream and milk, but those with lactose intolerance or who follow a dairy free diet may find it difficult to enjoy. Making a dairy-free custard is much easier than it seems. This guide will show you how to make a smooth, silky dairy-free custard on your stovetop within minutes. This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to reduce their dairy intake, whether they are vegans, lactose intolerant or just want to minimize it.
Understanding Custard
Custard, a sweet dessert, is made with a mixture consisting of egg yolks, milk or cream and sugar. The custard can be baked or cooked in the oven. The custard’s signature texture is created by the eggs, which act as a thickening ingredient. The challenge of making dairy-free cream or milk is finding a substitute that provides the same consistency and taste.
Ingredients for Dairy Free Custard
Ingredients needed to make a dairy free custard:
- Nondairy Milk: Select a nondairy drink that you like, such as almond, coconut, soy, or oatmilk. You can experiment with different types of milk to see which one you prefer.
- The egg yolks: The egg yolks are important for the thickening of custard, and to give it a rich texture.
- Sugar: Granulated or granular sugar is the most common sweetener, but other sweeteners like maple syrup, honey or coconut sugar can be used for a variety of flavors.
- Cornstarch: This thickens the custard to ensure it is the right consistency.
- Extract of vanilla: Vanilla is a sweet, warm flavor that compliments custard perfectly. You can experiment with different flavors such as almond or rum extract.
- Salt: A pinch salt balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Instructions Step-by-Step
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Measuring all ingredients is important before cooking. It will keep you organized and make sure that your cooking process runs smoothly. You will need the following:
- 2 cups non-dairy dairy milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- Half a cup of sugar granules
- Cornstarch 2 tablespoons
- Vanilla Extract 1 Teaspoon
- Salt is a pinch
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
Combine the cornstarch and sugar in a medium mixing bowl. The cornstarch will be evenly distributed in the custard if you mix the dry ingredients.
3. Whirl the egg yolks
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk egg yolks to a smooth consistency. This step is important as it ensures that the egg yolks are evenly incorporated into the custard mix.
4. Heat up the non-dairy milk
Pour the non-dairy in a medium saucepan and heat over medium heat. To prevent scorching, stir the milk occasionally. Heat milk to a temperature that is warm but not boiling. Steam should rise from the surface and bubbles around the edge.
5. Temper Egg Yolks
You can prevent curdling of the yolks by adding a little hot milk at a time to the yolks, while constantly whisking. Pour in about 1/4 cup hot milk and whisk vigorously. This will slowly increase the temperature of the yolks so that they are less likely to curdle once you add them to the hot milk.
6. Mix the Mixtures
After the egg yolks are tempered, pour the rest of the hot milk into the pan, while whisking continuously. The egg yolks will be evenly distributed in the mixture.
7. Cook the Custard
Continue cooking the mixture on medium heat while stirring continuously with a heat-resistant wooden spatula or wooden spoon. As the custard cooks, pay close attention and scrape the sides and bottom of the pan. As it heats, the custard begins to thicken. This usually takes 5-7 minutes.
8. Test for Doneness
When the custard coats the back of a teaspoon, it’s ready. Dip a spoon in the custard, then run your finger along the coating of the spoon. The custard will be ready if the line is still clear. Overcooking the custard can result in it becoming grainy.
9. Add Vanilla Extract
Poursuspend the heat, and add the vanilla extract. The custard’s heat will help distribute the vanilla evenly.
10. Strain the Custard
Pour a custard that is extra smooth, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve and into a clean bowl. This helps remove any cooked egg bits or lumps which may have formed while cooking.
11. Chill the Custard
Transfer the custard into a bowl or individual dishes. To prevent the formation of a skin, cover the surface with plastic wrap and press it onto the surface. Refrigerate the custard at least for 2 hours or until it has been thoroughly chilled.
How to make the Perfect Dairy Free Custard
1. Select the right non-dairy creamer: The custard will have a different texture and flavor depending on the type of milk you use. Almond milk has a lighter flavor and a creamier texture. Coconut milk is richer. Oat and soy milk provide a good choice for all-around use. They have a nice texture and taste.
2. Keep the heat low: Custard should be cooked evenly and gently. Stir constantly and use medium heat to avoid the custard curdling.
3. Temper your eggs correctly: This is a crucial step to avoid curdling. Addition of hot milk while continuously whisking will gradually raise the temperature, reducing the likelihood that the eggs will curdle.
4. Strain to ensure smoothness: By straining the custard with a fine mesh sieve, you can achieve a smooth texture that is free of lumps and cooked egg bits.
5. Try different flavors: Do not be afraid to try new ones. Add a teaspoon almond extract to make a custard with an almond flavor, or mix in melted dairy-free dark chocolate for a chocolaty custard. Before making the custard, you can infuse non-dairy dairy milk with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
The dairy-free custard can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions.
- Custard straight from the fridge: Enjoy it chilled. The rich, creamy flavor and texture make this a delicious dessert all on its own.
- Fruit: Serve custard with fresh fruit, such as berries, bananas sliced, or fruit compote. The sweetness of the custard is perfectly balanced by the tartness of fruit.
- Filling for a dairy free tart: Use custard. Pour the custard in a tart shell that has been baked and let it chill until set. Add fresh fruit, cocoa powder or a dusting.
- Layered Desserts: To create a dessert with layers, alternate layers of custard, cake, fruits, or cookies. This is a delicious and impressive trifle.
- With crumble: Serve the custard alongside a warm crumble of fruit for a comforting treat. The combination of warm crumble with cool custard makes for a delicious dessert.
The Conclusion Of The Article Is:
It’s easy to make dairy-free custard at home. Follow these tips and steps to create a delicious, smooth and creamy custard. It’s a delicious treat you can enjoy on its own or with fruit. You can also use it to make a dessert. Grab your ingredients and start cooking! A delicious, dairy-free, custard will be ready in minutes.
