custard

Custard

Custard is a creamy, smooth dessert or sauce made from a mixture of milk or cream, eggs or egg yolks, sugar, and often vanilla or other flavorings. Its texture can range from a thin, pourable sauce to a thick, spoonable pudding, depending on the ratio of ingredients and cooking method. The flavor is generally sweet and rich, with a subtle eggy note that is balanced by the vanilla or other flavorings added. Good quality custard should have a velvety mouthfeel and a pale yellow color, indicating the use of fresh eggs.

Common Uses

  • As a base for various desserts: Custard forms the luscious foundation for treats like crème brûlée, flan, and trifle, lending its rich texture and flavor to these classic desserts. - As a sauce for pastries and cakes: Serve custard warm or cold as a decadent sauce drizzled over pastries, cakes, or fruit pies, enhancing their sweetness and moistness. - As a filling for pies and tarts: Bake custard into pies and tarts to create creamy fillings with a delicate sweetness that complements various crusts and toppings. - Incorporated into ice cream recipes: Adding custard to homemade ice cream recipes creates a richer, smoother, and more decadent frozen dessert with a luxurious texture. - Thickening agent for sauces and soups: Use custard as a natural thickening agent for savory sauces and creamy soups, adding a velvety texture and subtle richness without relying on flour or starch. - Enjoyed as a standalone dessert: Chilled custard can be enjoyed on its own as a simple yet satisfying dessert, offering a comforting and creamy treat any time of day.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

139.0kcal (6.95%)

Protein

3.7g (7.4%)

Carbs

17.0g (6.18%)

Sugars

12.0g (24%)

Healthy Fat

1.8g

Unhealthy Fat

3.9g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Provides calcium for strong bones and teeth.
  • Source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
  • Contains vitamins like riboflavin and vitamin B12, supporting energy metabolism.
  • Can be a source of choline, important for brain health.
  • May offer a comforting and satisfying dessert option in moderation.
  • Often made with milk, contributing to daily dairy intake.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is crucial to maintain custard's quality and prevent spoilage. Ideally, store custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator immediately after cooling to room temperature. Homemade custard typically lasts for 2-3 days in the fridge. Commercially prepared custard may have a longer shelf life, indicated on the packaging. Do not freeze custard, as it can change the texture and cause it to separate upon thawing.

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