Skip to main content

Vanilla Custard

4.4

(8)

Cooks’ notes:

•Custard can be quick-chilled in an ice bath, stirring frequently.
•Custard can be chilled (in refrigerator) up to 1 day.◊

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    2 1/4 hr (includes chilling)

  • Yield

    Makes about 4 cups

Ingredients

3 1/2 cups whole milk
8 large egg yolks
2/3 cup sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Equipment: an instant-read thermometer

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Heat milk in a heavy medium saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling.

    Step 2

    Meanwhile, whisk together yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl.

    Step 3

    Add hot milk to egg mixture in a slow stream, whisking constantly, then pour custard back into saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and registers 170°F (do not let boil). Immediately strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl and stir in butter and vanilla. Chill custard, its surface covered with parchment paper (to prevent a skin from forming), until cold, 2 to 3 hours.

Read More
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like crispy gnocchi caprese and raspberry—brown butter skillet cake.
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
The secret to flavorful, never-greasy eggplant parm? Brine the eggplant first.
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
No grill needed for this just-charred-enough sweet and spicy chicken.
Fontina and fried shallots make this diner-style omelet perfectly acceptable dinner fare.