If you’re looking for a quick no-bake dessert recipe that’s rich, silky, and incredibly easy to prepare, this creamy custard milk dessert is perfect. It requires simple pantry ingredients, no oven, and minimal effort—making it ideal for busy families, holiday gatherings, or anyone craving a smooth and comforting sweet treat.
This recipe is trending among searches for easy dessert recipes at home, budget-friendly desserts, and no-oven pudding recipes, especially in households that want simple ingredients with bakery-style results.
🛒 Ingredients
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4 cups whole milk
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½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
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½ cup cornstarch
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Chocolate sprinkles (optional topping)
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
In a saucepan (while cold), whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until fully dissolved. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth custard texture.
Step 2: Cook Until Thick
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously using a whisk or wooden spoon. After 5–8 minutes, the mixture will begin to thicken. Keep stirring to prevent sticking or burning.
👉 Pro Tip: The custard is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
Step 3: Add Flavor & Finish
Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. This enhances flavor and gives the dessert a glossy, creamy finish.
Step 4: Set the Dessert
Pour the hot custard into a glass dish or serving bowl. Smooth the top with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for 15 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until fully set.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Top with chocolate sprinkles, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, or fresh fruit. Slice or scoop and serve chilled.
🍨 Texture & Flavor Profile
This dessert is:
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Silky smooth
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Creamy and rich
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Lightly sweet
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Melt-in-your-mouth soft
It resembles a classic homemade vanilla pudding or milk custard dessert, but with a firmer, sliceable texture once chilled.
💡 Why This Recipe Is Popular
Searches for no bake dessert recipes, easy custard recipe without eggs, and simple milk desserts continue to grow. Many people prefer egg-free recipes due to dietary preferences or convenience.
This dessert is:
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Budget-friendly
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Kid-approved
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Great for meal prep
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Perfect for parties
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Easy to customize
🥥 Variations & Customizations
1️⃣ Chocolate Version
Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder while mixing the base.
2️⃣ Coconut Custard
Replace 1 cup of milk with coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
3️⃣ Low-Calorie Option
Use low-fat milk and a sugar substitute for a low-calorie dessert option.
4️⃣ Layered Dessert
Layer with crushed biscuits or graham crackers to create a no-bake layered pudding cake.
🔥 High CPM Related Topics (Popular Search Questions)
❓ Can I make custard without cornstarch?
Yes, you can use flour (increase amount slightly) or custard powder. However, cornstarch gives the smoothest texture.
❓ Why is my custard lumpy?
Lumps usually form if:
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The mixture wasn’t whisked well before heating
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Heat was too high
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Stirring stopped during cooking
Whisk continuously for a creamy result.
❓ How long does homemade pudding last?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4–5 days in the refrigerator.
❓ Can I freeze this custard dessert?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may separate and lose its creamy consistency once thawed.
❓ Is this recipe good for kids?
Absolutely. It’s a simple, mild, and creamy dessert that children enjoy. You can reduce sugar for a healthier version.
❓ Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used, but the texture may be slightly less rich.
🏆 Expert Tips for Perfect Results
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Always mix cornstarch with cold milk first
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Stir constantly while cooking
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Use medium heat only
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Chill completely before slicing
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Cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin formation
📌 Final Thoughts
This creamy no-bake custard milk dessert is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re searching for an easy family dessert, a quick party sweet recipe, or a budget-friendly homemade pudding, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.
