### **Creamy Custard Biscuit Dessert**
This delicious, no-bake dessert combines a smooth vanilla custard layer with a crunchy biscuit or cracker topping. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
#### **Ingredients:**
– **For the custard:**
– 4 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 egg yolks
– 4 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– **For the topping:**
– 1 cup crushed graham crackers (or any type of plain biscuit/cracker)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon (optional)
#### **Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the custard:**
– In a saucepan, heat 3 cups of the milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, salt, and the remaining 1 cup of milk until smooth.
– Once the milk in the saucepan is hot but not boiling, slowly pour in the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
– Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens into a custard-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
– Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. **Layer the dessert:**
– In a large serving dish, pour the warm custard into an even layer.
– In a small bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter and cinnamon (if using).
3. **Add the topping:**
– Sprinkle the crushed graham cracker mixture evenly over the custard.
4. **Chill and serve:**
– Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours to set and chill.
– Serve cold and enjoy!
Certainly! Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the **Creamy Custard Biscuit Dessert**:
### **About the Dessert:**
This dessert is often referred to as a **layered custard or biscuit pudding**. It’s a no-bake, creamy treat that’s perfect for those who enjoy light, smooth, and crunchy textures together. It’s versatile and can be made with simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. The crushed biscuits on top add a nice contrast to the smooth and rich custard base.
### **Key Components:**
1. **Custard Layer:**
– The custard is rich and smooth, made with basic ingredients like milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. The cornstarch helps thicken the custard, giving it a creamy, luscious texture that sets when chilled.
– **Pro tip:** Stir continuously while cooking the custard to avoid lumps and ensure a silky texture.
– You can add flavorings like vanilla, almond extract, or even citrus zest to customize it to your liking.
2. **Crumb Topping:**
– The topping provides a crunchy contrast. Typically, **graham crackers**, **digestive biscuits**, or **tea biscuits** work well. You can experiment with different crackers depending on what you prefer or have on hand.
– The **melted butter** mixed into the crumbs helps bind them and gives a buttery flavor.
– Adding **cinnamon** or a touch of nutmeg gives warmth and depth to the dessert, but you can omit this if you prefer a more neutral taste.
3. **Versatility:**
– You can layer other flavors into this dessert. For instance, **caramel**, **chocolate**, or **fruit puree** (like mango or berries) can be swirled into the custard layer before adding the topping.
– You can also add **whipped cream** or **fruit slices** (like bananas or strawberries) in between the layers for added texture and flavor.
### **Custom Variations:**
1. **Banana Pudding Version:**
– Slice bananas and layer them between the custard and crumbs for a classic banana pudding variation.
2. **Chocolate Twist:**
– Add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to the custard to make a chocolate custard version. Top with chocolate shavings or crushed Oreos instead of graham crackers for an indulgent chocolate dessert.
3. **Caramel Crunch:**
– Drizzle caramel sauce over the custard layer before adding the crushed biscuits to introduce a sweet, rich caramel flavor.
4. **Fruit-Inspired:**
– If you’re a fruit lover, you can mix in a layer of fruit puree or compote (such as strawberry or mango) between the custard and topping for a fruity twist.
### **Tips for Perfect Results:**
– **Cooling the custard:** Allow the custard to cool slightly before transferring it to the dish. If you want a firmer set custard, you can increase the amount of cornstarch slightly.
– **Chilling time:** Refrigerating for at least 2 hours (or overnight) is crucial as it helps the dessert set and develop a firmer consistency.
– **Serving:** Serve the dessert cold, straight from the refrigerator. The cold custard combined with the crunchy topping is incredibly satisfying.
### **Storage:**
– Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Over time, the topping may soften, so if you prefer a crunchy texture, consider adding fresh crumbs right before serving.
This simple dessert is ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a light treat after dinner. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and customizable based on what ingredients you have or prefer.
Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar or topping based on your taste preferences.