Print

Custard For One Recipe

4.6 from 79 reviews

This creamy homemade custard for one is a perfect single-serving dessert that is rich, smooth, and bursting with vanilla flavor. Made with simple ingredients like whole milk, egg yolk, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, it is easy to prepare on the stovetop and chilled to set, providing a classic and comforting treat in just a few steps.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Ingredients

  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Warm the Milk: In a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until tiny bubbles form around the edges, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir often to prevent scorching.
  2. Combine Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium bowl, stir the egg yolk and sugar together until well combined. Add the cornstarch and stir until smooth.
  3. Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly pour the hot milk into the bowl with the egg mixture, one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly to prevent the egg from cooking too quickly.
  4. Cook the Custard: Once fully combined, pour the mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the custard is thick and smooth, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  5. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  6. Chill the Custard: Pour the custard into a serving bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming, then refrigerate for about 2 hours until fully set and chilled.

Notes

  • Use whole milk for the best texture and creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk if desired.
  • Be sure to whisk constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and scorching on the bottom of the pan.
  • Tempering the egg yolks by gradually adding hot milk prevents curdling and ensures a smooth custard.
  • Pressing plastic wrap directly on the custard surface is key to stopping a skin from forming as it cools.
  • This custard is best enjoyed within 2 days of making it.

Keywords: custard, single serving custard, vanilla custard, easy dessert, stovetop custard, creamy custard