Are you craving a deliciously creamy dessert that's both refreshing and easy to make? Look no further! This mango custard recipe is the perfect answer. Bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe mangoes, this dessert is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this simple recipe will guide you to creating a homemade masterpiece that's sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ripe mango puree (about 2 large mangoes)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare your ramekins or oven-safe dishes by greasing them lightly. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
Make the custard base:
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch until well combined. This prevents lumps from forming in your final custard.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps before proceeding to the next step.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and vanilla extract together until light and frothy.
- Slowly temper the egg mixture by adding a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the eggs while continuously whisking. This prevents the eggs from curdling.
- Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
Cook the custard:
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid burning the bottom.
- Remove from heat and stir in the mango puree and salt.
Bake and chill:
- Pour the custard mixture into the prepared ramekins.
- Place the ramekins in a larger baking dish. Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This creates a water bath, ensuring even baking and preventing cracking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cover the ramekins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the custard to fully chill and set. The longer it chills, the richer the flavor will become.
Tips for the Best Mango Custard:
- Use ripe mangoes: The riper the mangoes, the sweeter and more flavorful your custard will be.
- Strain the mango puree: For a smoother custard, strain the mango puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any fibers.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry custard. The center should be slightly jiggly when done.
- Chill thoroughly: Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the custard to set properly.
Variations:
- Coconut Mango Custard: Add ½ cup of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Spiced Mango Custard: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Layered Mango Custard: Layer the custard with crushed digestive biscuits or graham crackers for added texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: High
- Protein: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: High
This delightful mango custard is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. It's easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and yields a stunning dessert. This recipe is a perfect addition to your list of best recipes and homemade cooking endeavors. Enjoy this tropical treat!