Layered Vanilla and Chocolate Custard Dessert
Silky, rich, and elegantly nostalgic, this two-layer custard dessert blends smooth vanilla with luscious chocolate for a timeless treat with a refined twist. It’s a dish that straddles the line between homey comfort and quiet indulgence—perfect for dinner parties or simple family moments alike.
By combining just a few basic ingredients with a little patient stirring, you’ll craft a dessert that feels both familiar and fresh—classic flavors layered into something truly special.
🧁 Ingredients
| Component | Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Custard | Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | |
| Cornstarch | ¼ cup | |
| Egg yolks | 4 large | |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | |
| Chocolate Custard | Milk | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | |
| Cornstarch | ¼ cup | |
| Egg yolks | 4 large | |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 2 tablespoons | |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | |
| Garnish | Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting) | As needed |
| Optional: chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or fresh berries | To taste |
🍫 Instructions
Step 1: Make the Vanilla Custard
- Gently heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer—don’t let it boil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth and light in color.
- Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring steadily until it thickens and begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and butter until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin, and refrigerate until cool.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Custard
- Follow the same steps, this time whisking in cocoa powder along with the sugar, cornstarch, and yolks.
- Heat the milk, temper the eggs, cook until thick and glossy, then stir in vanilla and butter.
- Cover with plastic wrap and chill.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Once both custards have cooled completely, begin layering them into glasses, jars, or a serving dish.
- Start with vanilla, smoothing the surface.
- Follow with chocolate custard. Continue layering if desired, ending with chocolate for contrast.
Step 4: Finish and Chill
- Dust the top layer with cocoa powder.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best texture.
- Before serving, top with your choice of chocolate curls, whipped cream, or fresh berries.
