Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Recipe

Dreamy Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Recipe for Sweet Moments

Sweet memories of childhood desserts dance through my vanilla custard fruit slices, promising a delightful journey of creamy indulgence.

Layers of soft pastry embrace silky smooth custard with elegant simplicity.

Delicate fruit nestles between golden sheets, creating a symphony of textures that whispers comfort.

Seasonal berries and tender cream invite you to savor each delectable bite.

Carefully selected ingredients blend harmoniously, turning an ordinary moment into something extraordinary.

Crisp pastry provides the perfect canvas for this luxurious treat.

Summer gatherings or quiet afternoon breaks become magical with these irresistible slices waiting to be devoured.

Why Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Are So Refreshing

  • Customize with Ease: Swap fruits based on seasonal availability or personal preferences, making this dessert adaptable to any pantry.
  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or family gatherings where you want a sophisticated yet simple dessert that impresses.
  • Silky Smooth Texture: The careful tempering technique creates a luxurious, creamy custard that feels restaurant-quality without complex cooking skills.
  • No-Bake Delight: Enjoy a refreshing dessert that requires minimal cooking, keeping your kitchen cool and your prep time short.

Ingredients for Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices

Base Ingredients:
  • Milk: Provides the creamy liquid base for the custard.
  • Cream: Adds richness and smooth texture to the custard.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the custard and balances the flavors.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the custard.
Egg Components:
  • Egg Yolks: Creates the thick, luxurious texture of the custard.
  • Cornstarch: Helps to thicken and stabilize the custard mixture.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a classic sweet and aromatic flavor to the custard.
  • Fresh Mixed Fruit: Serves as the base layer for serving the custard.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves: Offers a decorative and refreshing garnish for the dessert.

How to Prepare Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices

Step 1: Warm Milk and Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Gently heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until it becomes warm and steamy.

Be careful not to let it boil.

Step 2: Whisk Egg Yolk Blend

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Egg yolks
  • Cornstarch
  • Vanilla extract

Continue whisking until the mixture becomes completely smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture

Gradually pour a small stream of the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture while continuously whisking. This process, called tempering, prevents the eggs from scrambling and creates a silky smooth texture.

Step 4: Create Custard Base

Transfer the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over low heat, whisking constantly to prevent sticking.

The custard will begin to thicken after 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Cool Down Custard

Remove the saucepan from heat and let the custard cool to room temperature.

Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on top.

Step 6: Assemble Fruit Layers

Select your favorite fresh mixed fruits and arrange them in serving glasses or bowls.

Carefully spoon the cooled custard over the fruit layers.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, allowing the custard to completely set and flavors to meld together.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Enjoy your delightful creamy fruit custard!

Custard Fruit Slice Tips You’ll Appreciate

  • Use whole milk for a richer, creamier custard texture that melts smoothly on the tongue.
  • Prevent lumpy custard by whisking egg yolks constantly and tempering them gradually with warm milk to maintain silky consistency.
  • Opt for fresh, seasonal fruits like berries, peaches, or mangoes to enhance the dessert's natural sweetness and visual appeal.
  • Chill custard thoroughly for at least 2 hours to achieve perfect set and allow flavors to meld together deliciously.
  • Experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a unique twist on traditional vanilla custard.

Tasty Twists on Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices

  • Tropical Paradise Custard: Replace mixed fruit with mango, pineapple, and passion fruit for a vibrant Caribbean-inspired dessert.
  • Chocolate Berry Fusion: Mix cocoa powder into custard and top with fresh raspberries and blueberries for a rich, decadent version.
  • Lavender Honey Infusion: Add dried lavender and honey to the custard base, then garnish with edible lavender flowers and poached pears.
  • Citrus Zest Sensation: Incorporate orange and lemon zest into the custard, then layer with blood orange segments and candied citrus peel.

What to Serve with Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices

  • Pair Creamy Custard with Complementary Flavors
  • – Elevate Wine Selection: Choose a crisp Riesling or Moscato to balance the rich, sweet custard with its light, fruity notes.
  • – Enhance Fruit Pairing: Add a sprinkle of toasted almonds or pistachios for a delightful crunch that contrasts the smooth custard texture.
  • – Boost Dessert Experience: Serve alongside a small shortbread cookie or light vanilla biscuit to provide a delicate, buttery companion to the creamy dessert.
  • – Refresh with Herbal Touch: Steep a light chamomile or lavender tea to cleanse the palate and complement the vanilla and fruit flavors.

How to Store Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Like a Pro

  • Refrigerator Storage: Transfer leftover custard to an airtight container and seal tightly. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days maximum. Cover surface with plastic wrap directly touching the custard to prevent skin formation.
  • Freezer Storage: Pour cooled custard into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1/2 inch space at top. Freeze up to 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
  • Reheating Refrigerated Custard: Gently warm in microwave using 15-second intervals, stirring between each to maintain smooth texture. Alternatively, use a double boiler on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
  • Thawing Frozen Custard: Move frozen custard to refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, whisk thoroughly to restore creamy consistency before serving. Do not refreeze after thawing.

Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices FAQs Answered

  • Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?

Yes, but whole milk provides a richer, creamier texture. Low-fat milk will work, but the custard might be slightly less smooth and decadent.

  • How do I prevent lumps in my custard?

Temper the eggs slowly by adding hot milk gradually and whisk constantly while cooking. This prevents egg scrambling and ensures a silky smooth consistency.

  • Is cornstarch necessary for this recipe?

Cornstarch helps thicken the custard and provides a stable, smooth texture. Without it, your custard might be runny or separate during cooking.

  • Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custard up to 2-3 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator before assembling with fruit.

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Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Recipe

Vanilla Custard Fruit Slices Recipe


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4.7 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 2 hours 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy vanilla custard fruit slices bring Mediterranean summer sweetness to classic dessert tables. Delicate pastry layers, fresh seasonal fruits, and silky custard create an irresistible combination you cannot resist savoring.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh mixed fruit (such as berries, mango, and kiwi)
  • 1 large egg yolks
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Custard and Sweetening Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Garnish:

  • Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Combine milk, cream, sugar, and salt in a saucepan, heating gently over medium temperature until warm but not bubbling, stirring consistently to prevent scorching.
  2. Separately, whisk egg yolks, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until achieving a silky, uniform consistency without lumps.
  3. Carefully stream a small portion of warm milk mixture into egg mixture, whisking vigorously to gradually equalize temperatures and prevent egg curdling.
  4. Transfer entire egg mixture back into saucepan, reducing heat to low and continuously whisking for 5-7 minutes until custard transforms into a thick, velvety texture.
  5. Immediately remove from heat, allowing custard to cool naturally at room temperature while stirring periodically to maintain smooth consistency.
  6. Layer fresh mixed fruits in serving vessels, creating an attractive base for the custard.
  7. Gently spoon cooled custard over fruit layers, ensuring even distribution and aesthetic presentation.
  8. Refrigerate dessert for minimum 2 hours, enabling custard to set and flavors to meld harmoniously.
  9. Prior to serving, garnish with delicate fresh mint leaves for an elegant, aromatic finishing touch.

Notes

  • Tempering eggs is crucial to prevent scrambling, so pour hot milk slowly while whisking constantly.
  • Use fresh, ripe fruits like strawberries, peaches, or mixed berries for maximum flavor and vibrant colors.
  • For a lighter version, substitute whole milk with low-fat milk and use half the sugar amount.
  • Consider making the custard a day ahead to enhance flavor development and save preparation time.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Truc Tran (Kris)

Truc Tran (Kris)

Senior Food Editor

Expertise

Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert

Education

  • Hospitality (Commercial Cookery) at TasTAFE
  • Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
  • Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef at HNAAu School (Vietnam, International Joint Training Program)

Truc Tran (Kris), an experienced food writer and editor, is great at exploring and describing global cuisines, from simple street food to fancy dining. In her writing, she skillfully mixes different flavors, cooking methods, and culinary traditions, showing the unique character of various cultures through their food and drinks. On azcuisines.com, Kris highlights her knowledge, especially in Asian cuisine and worldwide traditional dishes.

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