How to Make English Custard

Some people refer to it as a British sauce, and English custard continues to be a favorite treat throughout Europe. Custard can be served alone or with pound cake; you'll find it in the classic English Trifle as well. While many custard lovers turn to Bird's Eye for a convenient mix, it's still fairly easy to make this delicious dessert from scratch. Here's how to make a classic English custard.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 fresh vanilla pod
• 10 oz. double cream/heavy whipping cream
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon corn flour
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar or honey

1. Prepare the cream. Split the vanilla bean pod and separate from the seeds and mix with cream in a small saucepan. Heat on a low heat setting to bring mixture to a simmer.

2. Prepare custard. Whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and corn flour in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.

3. Combine the mixtures. Remove the vanilla pod from the cream mixture, and slowly pour it over the egg yolks. Keep whisking the egg mixture as you pour.

4. Heat again. Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and gently whisk until custard becomes thick. It will become more smooth as it simmers.

5. Continue whisking until custard becomes thick, smooth, and is the consistency of a pudding.

6. Pour the mixture into a bowl and cover with saran wrap. Refrigerate immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Serve custard warm with pies and other hot desserts.
• Serve custard cold with cakes and puddings.
• Custard is a great dessert all on its own.
• Prevent eggs from congealing by whisking heavily as you combine the hot mixture.

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on 1/20/2009 check out myenglishpantry.com for more recipes