This Marry Berry Foolproof Custard is a smooth and creamy recipe, which uses full-fat milk and egg yolks. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 20 minutes.
Marry Berry Foolproof Custard Ingredients
- 600ml (1 pint) full-fat milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 25g (1oz) caster sugar
- 1 rounded tbsp cornflour
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 5 tbsp pouring double cream (optional)
How To Make Marry Berry Foolproof Custard
- Heat the milk: Pour milk into a saucepan and heat until just below boiling point.
- Mix the base: In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornflour, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine and strain: Gradually whisk in the hot milk. Clean the pan, then strain the custard back into it.
- Cook the custard: Stir over medium heat until thickened and it coats the back of a spoon.
- Finish with cream (optional): Stir in double cream for a richer texture.

Recipe Tips
- How to avoid lumps: Whisk constantly while cooking and strain before reheating.
- Can I make it ahead? Yes, keep warm or reheat gently within 8 hours.
- Why use cornflour? It stabilizes the custard and prevents curdling.
- Can I skip the cream? Yes, it’s optional for a richer finish.
What To Serve With Custard
This custard is a versatile dessert sauce and pairs well with:
- Steamed puddings (like sponge or treacle)
- Fruit crumbles
- Apple pies or tarts
- Chocolate cake or brownies
How To Store Foolproof Custard
Refrigerate: Keep warm for up to 8 hours or store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Freeze: Not suitable for freezing.
Foolproof Custard Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~180 kcal per 150ml serving
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use semi-skimmed milk?
Yes, but the custard will be slightly less rich.
Why is my custard too thin?
It may need more time to thicken—continue stirring gently over heat.
Can I use whole eggs instead of yolks?
For best texture, stick to yolks. Whole eggs may cause curdling.
How to reheat custard?
Warm gently over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Marry Berry Foolproof Custard
Description
A silky, no-fail vanilla custard that’s rich, smooth, and perfect with all your favorite desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat milk until just below boiling.
- Mix yolks, sugar, cornflour, and vanilla into a smooth paste.
- Whisk in hot milk, strain into a clean pan.
- Cook gently, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in cream, if using.
Notes
- Straining ensures a silky texture.
- Reheat gently to avoid splitting.
- Optional cream adds richness.
- Not suitable for freezing.
