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Chilled Vanilla Lemon Custard is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the richness of vanilla with the refreshing zing of lemon. This creamy custard is not only easy to make but also a wonderful treat for warm days or any special occasion. With its smooth texture and vibrant flavor, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying it as a simple weeknight dessert, this custard is a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Milk and Cream Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, heavy cream, and half of the sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Yolks
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, remaining sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until well combined and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture
Slowly pour about one cup of the hot milk and cream mixture into the bowl with the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Once combined, pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk and cream.
Step 4: Cook the Custard
Return the saucepan to low heat and cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 170°F or 77°C). Be careful not to let it boil.
Step 5: Strain the Custard
Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits. This will ensure a smooth texture.
Step 6: Chill the Custard
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, placing it directly on the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely chilled.
Step 7: Serve
Once chilled, give the custard a gentle stir before serving. You can serve it in individual cups or bowls, garnished with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
While you can use low-fat milk, using whole milk will give you a richer and creamier custard. The heavy cream also contributes to the luxurious texture.
How long can I store Chilled Vanilla Lemon Custard?
You can store the custard in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Can I make this custard dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the milk and cream with coconut milk or any other non-dairy milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Chilled Vanilla Lemon Custard?
This custard pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits, crumbled cookies, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. You can also enjoy it on its own!
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