Last Updated on 3 months by Neha Deshmukh

Apple Custard Recipe – Easy Indian Dessert With Milk & Sugar

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a simple, comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, you’ve come to the right place. This Apple Custard is a classic Indian treat – creamy, sweet, and bursting with the fresh flavour of apples. It’s one of those recipes my grandmother used to make, and honestly, it always feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Custard is seriously easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned cook. It requires minimal ingredients and effort, but the result is a deliciously satisfying dessert. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can adjust the sweetness, add a touch of spice, or even swap out the apples for other fruits. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert:

• 2 cups milk (about 480ml)
• 4-6 tablespoons sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
• 2 tablespoons custard powder
• 5 tablespoons milk (for mixing with custard powder – about 60ml)
• 1 apple

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! When it comes to milk, full-cream milk (about 3.25% fat) is traditionally used for a richer, creamier custard. However, you can definitely use toned milk (around 3% fat) if you prefer a lighter version. Both work beautifully!

As for custard powder, brands like MTR and Weikfield are super popular in India and readily available. They both give a lovely, classic flavour. Don’t worry if you can’t find those exact brands, any good quality custard powder will do.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business!

1. First, in a small bowl, combine the custard powder with 5 tablespoons of milk. Give it a good whisk until it’s smooth and completely lump-free. This is a crucial step – nobody wants lumpy custard!
2. Now, in a heavy-bottomed pan, pour in the remaining milk and add the sugar. Place it over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the milk starts to simmer.
3. Here comes the magic! Slowly pour the custard mixture into the boiling milk while stirring constantly. Seriously, don’t stop stirring! This prevents lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring all the time, until the custard thickens. You’ll notice it coating the back of a spoon.
5. Remove the pan from the heat and let the custard cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or even better, overnight. This allows the custard to chill completely and develop its flavour.
6. Just before serving, finely chop the apple and gently mix it into the chilled custard.
7. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle with a little caramel syrup. Serve cold and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t rush the cooling process. Chilling the custard properly is key to getting that perfect, set texture.
• Stir, stir, stir! I can’t stress this enough. Constant stirring is your best friend when making custard.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pan. This helps prevent the custard from scorching.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk like almond or soy milk and vegan custard powder. It’s surprisingly delicious!
• Spice Level: Add a tiny pinch of cardamom powder (about 1/4 teaspoon) to the milk while it’s simmering for a warm, aromatic flavour. My friend, Priya, swears by this!
• Festival Adaptations: This custard is lovely served during celebrations like Diwali or Holi. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert for festive gatherings.
• Sugar Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. I usually start with 4 tablespoons and add more if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Custard is wonderful on its own, but you can also get creative with your presentation. Try serving it in pretty glasses or bowls. A sprinkle of chopped nuts (like almonds or pistachios) adds a nice crunch. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of chai!

Storage Instructions

Leftover Apple Custard can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It might thicken slightly upon standing, so you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What type of apples work best in this recipe? Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala apples are all great choices. They hold their shape well and have a lovely tartness that complements the sweetness of the custard.
• Can I make this custard ahead of time? Absolutely! You can make the custard a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the chopped apple right before serving.
• How do I prevent lumps from forming in the custard? The key is to mix the custard powder with a little milk first to create a smooth paste. Then, add it to the boiling milk gradually while stirring constantly.
• What is the best way to chill the custard quickly? Place the bowl of custard in an ice bath (a larger bowl filled with ice and water). Stir occasionally to help it cool down faster.
• Can I add other fruits to this custard? Definitely! Mangoes, bananas, peaches, or berries would all be delicious additions.