Silky 5-Minute Lemon Custard (A Homemade Dessert I Never Get Tired Of)
If there’s one thing I’m endlessly grateful for in the kitchen, it’s a dessert that feels luxurious without demanding half my day. And this one? Oh, it’s a keeper. This silky 5-minute lemon custard has been my quiet little obsession for months—refreshing, creamy, tangy, and honestly… dangerously easy to fall in love with.
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What This Recipe Is All About
We’re talking about a no-bake stovetop custard that comes together in minutes.
It’s:
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Light yet creamy
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Sweet with just the right lemon zing
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Comforting but refreshing
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A perfect last-minute treat when dessert cravings strike
Whether you serve it warm and cozy or chilled and bright, it works for every season and every mood.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Five minutes. Truly.
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Minimal ingredients you likely already have at home.
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One pot, no mess.
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Incredibly versatile—dress it up or keep it simple.
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Crowd-pleasing flavor that’s tangy, creamy, and smooth.
What It Tastes Like
Imagine the silky texture of classic custard, but lighter. The lemon zest perfumes the entire mixture, giving it a bright citrus aroma, while the lemon juice brings a clean, refreshing finish. The condensed milk adds a subtle richness that makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug—without being overly sweet.
Benefits of This Recipe
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Perfect for quick cravings
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Budget-friendly
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Great for kids and adults
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Naturally portion-controlled
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Easy to personalize with toppings or flavors
Ingredients
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400 ml milk
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Zest of 1 lemon
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1 tsp vanilla sugar
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2 egg yolks
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40 g sugar
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15 g cornstarch
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Juice of 1 lemon
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100 g sweetened condensed milk
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Optional garnish: cinnamon, cocoa powder, chocolate shavings
Tools You’ll Need
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Medium saucepan
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Whisk
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Bowl and small measuring cup
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Microplane or fine grater (for zesting)
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Serving cups or ramekins
Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
Add-ins:
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A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
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A spoonful of shredded coconut
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Fresh berries on top
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Crushed biscuits for a layered “instant trifle”
Substitutions:
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Use orange zest/juice for a sweeter citrus twist
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Swap condensed milk for evaporated milk + 1 Tbsp sugar
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Switch cow’s milk for plant milk (almond or oat work great)
