How to make custard
Skill level
Easy
Equipment you will need for this technique
Chopping board
Small knife
Small saucepan with pouring spout
Wooden spoon
Sieve
Heatproof bowl
Serving jug
Learn how to make custard with our video guide. This foolproof recipe for vanilla custard is the perfect accompaniment to crumbles, sponges and puddings.
Heat 568ml/1 pint of full fat milk in a small saucepan, ideally with a pouring spout.
Slice a vanilla pod down the middle along its length. Scrape out the seeds with a knife and tip into the milk with the pod. Alternatively, you can use vanilla essence.
Gradually heat the milk and vanilla together over a medium heat. When the milk boils, remove from the heat and allow to cool.
Mix together 3 egg yolks in a heatproof bowl with 25g/1oz caster sugar and 2 tsp of cornflour to form a smooth paste.
Pour the cooled milk into the paste and stir well with a wooden spoon, until smooth and fully incorporated.
Strain the mixture through a sieve into the saucepan and, stirring constantly, cook on a very low heat, until the custard thickens. The custard is ready when you are able to make a clear line with your finger on the back of the wooden spoon. Pour into a serving jug.
