Strawberry Custard is a delectable, creamy dessert that combines the rich texture of custard with the fresh, fruity flavor of strawberries. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is simple to make and will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, strawberry custard offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and creaminess. Let’s explore how to make this delightful dessert from scratch!

Ingredients for Strawberry Custard

To prepare this heavenly strawberry custard, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Custard:

• 2 cups full-fat milk
• 2 tablespoons custard powder (vanilla flavor)
• 4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
• A pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries (washed and hulled)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Mint leaves (optional)

How to Make Strawberry Custard: Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

Start by making the strawberry sauce. Place the fresh strawberries and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and release their juice (around 5-7 minutes). Once the mixture starts to thicken, add the lemon juice and continue to cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. You can mash the strawberries if you prefer a smoother consistency or leave it chunky for more texture.

2. Make the Custard

In a separate saucepan, pour the full-fat milk and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix the custard powder with a little cold milk to make a smooth paste. Once the milk comes to a boil, add the custard paste to the saucepan while continuously stirring to avoid lumps.

Reduce the heat to low and cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens. Stir in the sugar, vanilla essence, and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir for another minute to ensure everything is well incorporated.

3. Combine Custard and Strawberry Sauce

Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. To serve, pour a layer of the custard into individual serving glasses or bowls. Spoon some of the strawberry sauce over the custard, creating a beautiful contrast of colors.

4. Chill and Serve

Place the assembled strawberry custard in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to chill. This will allow the flavors to meld together and give you that perfectly creamy texture. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and a few mint leaves for a refreshing touch before serving.

Tips for Making Perfect Strawberry Custard

• Custard Consistency: The custard should have a smooth, thick consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a little milk to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, continue cooking on low heat until it thickens further.
• Fresh Strawberries: Always use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sauce to get the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch, but fresh strawberries will provide a much fresher, juicier taste.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of your strawberries and personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
• Flavor Variations: For added flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon zest to the strawberry sauce or a pinch of cardamom to the custard. These small additions will give a unique twist to your dessert.

Health Benefits of Strawberry Custard

• Rich in Vitamins: Strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.
• Calcium-Rich: The milk used in custard provides a good dose of calcium, which is essential for bone health and strong teeth.
• Antioxidant Properties: Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and may reduce inflammation in the body.

How to Serve Strawberry Custard

Strawberry Custard is best served chilled as a dessert after a meal. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet snack or even as a part of a larger dessert buffet. The custard pairs wonderfully with other desserts like cakes or pastries, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Strawberry Custard is a perfect dessert for those who crave a refreshing, creamy, and subtly sweet treat. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a special celebration, or just for yourself, this dessert will undoubtedly impress. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delightful treat in the comfort of your home. Try it today and indulge in the heavenly combination of custard and strawberries!