Quick Description
This Creamy Vanilla Chocolate Chip Custard is smooth, rich, and irresistibly comforting. Made gently on the stovetop and folded with melty chocolate chips, it sets into a silky dessert that’s perfect served cold. Simple ingredients, classic flavor, and pure nostalgia in every spoonful.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Chill Time: 1–2 hours
- Total Time: ~20 minutes + chilling
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Sugar: 24g
- Protein: 6g
(Values vary based on milk and chocolate used.)
Ingredients List
- 3 cups whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (or chopped regular chocolate)
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a saucepan (off heat), whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, egg, and salt until completely smooth and lump-free.
Step 2: Cook the Custard
Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Cook, whisking constantly, for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
(Do not stop whisking—this prevents lumps and scrambling.)
Step 3: Finish with Butter & Vanilla
Once thick, remove from heat.
Stir in butter and vanilla extract until fully melted and smooth.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Let the custard cool for 1–2 minutes, then fold in the chocolate chips.
They should soften slightly but still hold shape.
Step 5: Chill
Pour custard into serving bowls or glasses.
Cover the surface with plastic wrap (touching the custard) to prevent skin.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, until fully chilled and set.
Additional Notes
- Stir constantly while cooking for ultra-smooth texture
- Cooling slightly before adding chocolate prevents full melting
- Covering the surface stops custard skin from forming
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free (cornstarch-based)
- Can be made dairy-free with plant milk and dairy-free butter
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor
- Stir in orange zest or espresso powder for a twist
- Top with whipped cream before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
- Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk
- Sugar: Half white + half brown sugar for deeper flavor
- Chocolate Chips: White chocolate or chopped chocolate bar
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled on its own
- Top with whipped cream or berries
- Layer with cookies for a custard parfait
- Perfect as a make-ahead dessert
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store covered up to 3 days
- Not freezer-friendly (texture changes)
FAQs
Q: Why is my custard lumpy?
A: Heat may have been too high or not whisked continuously.
Q: Can I make this thicker?
A: Add 1 extra teaspoon cornstarch.
Q: Can I skip the egg?
A: Yes—use 1 extra tablespoon cornstarch instead.
Q: Can kids eat this?
A: Absolutely—fully cooked and kid-friendly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vanilla Chocolate Chip Custard Dessert is simple, soothing, and timeless. Smooth vanilla custard with pockets of chocolate makes it the kind of dessert everyone asks for again.
