Homemade Dessert in 5 Minutes

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Introduction:

Craving a delicious dessert but don’t have the time or patience for baking? Look no further! This homemade lemon custard recipe is a game-changer, taking just 5 minutes to whip up and no baking required. With its creamy texture and zesty flavor, it’s a dessert you’ll never get tired of eating. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful treat!

Ingredients:

  • 400 ml (13.5 fl oz) milk
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
  • 2 egg yolks
  • 40g (1.4 oz) sugar
  • 15 g (0.5 oz) cornstarch
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) condensed milk
  • Cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chocolate for decoration

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Milk Mixture:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar.
    • Heat the mixture over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Then, remove from heat.
  2. Mix Egg Yolks and Sugar:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is light and creamy.
  3. Add Cornstarch:
    • Sift the cornstarch into the egg yolk mixture and whisk until smooth.
  4. Combine Mixtures:
    • Gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
  5. Cook Until Thickened:
    • Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add Lemon Juice and Condensed Milk:
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and condensed milk until well combined.
  7. Beat Until Thick:
    • Beat the mixture with an electric mixer or whisk until it becomes thick and creamy.
  8. Cool Down:
    • Pour the custard into a serving dish or individual dessert cups. Let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, you can decorate the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or grated chocolate, according to your preference.
  9. Refrigerate:
    • Place the custard in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve the lemon custard chilled for the best taste and texture.
  2. Garnish each serving with a fresh lemon twist or a sprig of mint for a decorative touch.
  3. Pair the custard with fresh berries or fruit compote to add a burst of flavor and color.
  4. For an extra indulgent treat, serve the custard alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
  5. Consider serving the custard in individual dessert cups for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties or gatherings.

Storage Tips:

  1. Store any leftover lemon custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  2. Consume the custard within 2-3 days for the best quality and freshness.
  3. Before serving leftover custard, give it a quick stir to ensure the creamy texture is maintained.
  4. Avoid freezing the custard as it may alter the texture and flavor once thawed.
  5. If you need to make the custard ahead of time, prepare it as instructed and refrigerate until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.

FAQ’s

    • A: Yes, whole milk can be used as a substitute. However, the custard may be slightly richer in flavor and texture.
  • Q: Can I omit the lemon zest from the recipe if I don’t have it on hand?
    • A: While the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus flavor, you can omit it if necessary. The custard will still be delicious with the other ingredients.
  • Q: Is vanilla sugar necessary, or can I use vanilla extract instead?
    • A: Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute for vanilla sugar. Use approximately 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for the same flavor enhancement.
  • Q: Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe for a vegan version?
    • A: Yes, you can use commercial egg substitutes or alternatives such as mashed banana or applesauce for a vegan-friendly version.
  • Q: How long does it take for the custard to thicken on the stovetop?
    • A: It typically takes about 5-7 minutes over low heat for the custard to thicken and coat the back of a spoon.
  • Q: Can I make this custard ahead of time for a dinner party?
    • A: Yes, you can prepare the custard in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just allow it to cool completely before chilling.
  • Q: Can I reheat the custard if it becomes too thick after refrigeration?
    • A: Yes, you can gently reheat the custard over low heat, stirring constantly until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • Q: Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different flavor?
    • A: Yes, lime juice can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, offering a tangy twist to the custard.
  • Q: How should I store leftovers of the custard?
    • A: Leftover custard should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days for the best quality.
  • Q: Can I freeze the custard for later use?
    • A: It’s not recommended to freeze the custard as it may alter the texture and flavor once thawed.
  • Q: Can I use almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives in this recipe?
    • A: Yes, you can substitute almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives for regular milk if desired.
  • Q: How can I prevent the custard from curdling when combining with the hot milk mixture?
    • A: To prevent curdling, gradually pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.
  • Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of sugar?
    • A: Yes, you can use alternative sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or stevia, adjusting the amount to taste.
  • Q: Can I add other flavors to the custard, like almond or coconut?
    • A: Yes, you can customize the custard by adding extracts or flavorings such as almond or coconut for a unique twist.
  • Q: Can I make this custard without cornstarch?
    • A: Cornstarch helps to thicken the custard, but you can try using alternatives like arrowroot powder or tapioca starch if preferred.
  • Q: Can I use a hand mixer instead of an electric mixer to beat the custard?
    • A: Yes, a hand mixer can be used instead of an electric mixer to beat the custard until thick and creamy.
  • Q: Can I serve the custard warm instead of chilled?
    • A: While the custard is typically served chilled, you can serve it warm if desired. Just keep in mind that it may be slightly thinner in consistency when warm.
  • Q: Can I use this custard as a filling for cakes or pastries?
    • A: Yes, this custard can be used as a delicious filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts, adding a burst of flavor to your desserts.
  • Q: Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch of custard?
    • A: Yes, you can double or even triple the ingredients to make a larger batch of custard to serve more people.
  • Q: Can I add toppings other than cinnamon, cocoa powder, or chocolate?
    • A: Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings and try fresh fruit slices, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Conclusion:

With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can indulge in a heavenly homemade dessert that’s ready in a flash. This lemon custard is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly delicious, making it the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by its irresistible flavor and creamy texture!

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