Vegan Custard Recipe
This vegan custard is a creamy, dairy-free dessert made with plant-based milks and natural ingredients. Smooth and silky with a hint of vanilla and lemon zest, it’s perfect for anyone seeking a comforting, plant-based alternative to traditional custard. Ready in just 10 minutes, it can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for various vegan desserts.
- Author: lina
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Vegan Custard Ingredients
- 2 cups plant-milk (almond, oats, rice, or soy)
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ⅓ cup sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Peel of ½ lemon (only the peel)
- 1 cup coconut milk (canned, full fat)
- Combine ingredients off heat: In a saucepan off the heat, add 2 cups plant milk, ½ cup cornstarch, ⅓ cup sugar, ⅛ teaspoon turmeric, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, the peel of ½ a lemon, 1 cup canned coconut milk, and whisk until all lumps dissolve. Use a vegetable peeler to carefully remove just the lemon peel.
- Heat and whisk continuously: Place the saucepan on medium heat. Whisk constantly to prevent lumps and sticking. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard texture, which typically takes 2 to 5 minutes depending on the quantity and heat.
- Test for readiness: To check, dip a spoon into the custard and run your finger through it carefully (it will be hot). If the line stays clean and the spoon’s surface does not get coated, the custard is ready.
- Remove lemon peel: Once the custard is thickened to your liking, remove the pan from heat. Take out and discard the lemon peel to prevent bitterness.
- Final whisk and serve: Continue whisking the custard off the heat for another minute; it will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm or chill to use in other desserts.
Notes
- Use a non-dairy milk of your choice such as almond, oat, rice, or soy for different flavor profiles.
- Turmeric is used just for subtle color and does not impact flavor significantly.
- Whisking continuously is essential to prevent lumps and scorching on the pan.
- Use full-fat canned coconut milk for creaminess and richness.
- The custard will thicken further as it cools, so slightly under-thickening is okay while cooking.
Keywords: vegan custard, dairy-free custard, plant-based dessert, vegan dessert, stovetop custard, coconut milk custard