Decadence in Every Spoonful: Vanilla Custard

Whether you’re filling pastries, doughnuts, layering cakes, or simply indulging in a spoonful of creamy delight, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert to a whole new level. This versatile vanilla custard is a dreamy filling for eclairs, cream puffs, fruits tarts, or as a layer between cake tiers. Its velvety consistency and rich flavour make it a standout component in a variety of desserts.

What you will need:

• Medium sized pot
• Whisk

Ingredients:

• 450g Milk
• 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste (Vanilla extract or essence is fine too)
• 230g Caster Sugar
• 43g Cornflour
• 2 Large eggs
• 2 Egg Yolks

Method:

1. Put the milk and vanilla in a pot and bring to a simmer over a low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornflour, whole eggs and egg yolks until combined.
3. When the milk is hot but not boiling, pour a quarter of it into the egg mixture and stir in- this tempers the eggs.
4. Return the milk pot to the heat and while whisking, slowly add the egg mixture to the pot. Continue whisking constantly until the mixture is combined. It will gradually start to thicken.
5. When it has thickened to a yogurt consistency, remove it from the heat. Transfer it to a container or bowl and press cling wrap against the custard to stop a skin from forming on the top. Allow the custard to cool before using.

Tips for success:

• Whisk continuously to prevent lumps in the custard.

Experiment with flavour combinations by infusing the milk with spices like cinnamon or incorporating a touch of citrus zest. This custard serves as a blank canvas for your creativity, allowing you to tailor it to suit your preferences.