What is Custard Powder? Glossary | Uses + Recipes with Custard Powder |

Custard powder is a common pantry staple in many Indian homes, valued for its ability to create quick, eggless custard. Unlike traditional European custards that depend on egg yolks for texture and richness, custard powder provides a vegetarian-friendly alternative. It is primarily made from cornstarch (often called cornflour in India), along with sugar, flavoring agents (typically vanilla), and yellow food coloring to replicate the look of classic custard. This convenient mix has gained popularity for being easy to use, affordable, and adaptable in various desserts.

The concept of custard powder originated in 19th-century England as a solution for those who couldn't consume eggs. Over time, it made its way to India, where it found a warm reception, especially among the large vegetarian population and those seeking quick, satisfying sweets. Indian brands have since turned custard powder into a household essential, widely available in stores across the country.

In India, the most well-known use of custard powder is in making fruit custard. This dessert involves mixing the powder with a small amount of cold milk to form a slurry, then adding it to boiling milk with sugar while stirring until it thickens into a creamy base. After cooling, it’s combined with a variety of chopped fruits such as apples, bananas, grapes, pomegranates, and mangoes. Served chilled, this dessert is a staple at family gatherings, festivals, and during hot weather.

Beyond fruit custard, custard powder is used in numerous other Indian desserts. It serves as a thickener and flavor enhancer in recipes like bread pudding and other layered puddings, adding a smooth, creamy consistency. It’s also a popular component in trifles, forming a rich layer alongside cake, fruit, and whipped cream. Some creative home cooks use it in making eggless ice creams, combining it with cream and condensed milk for a rich, frozen dessert.

Custard powder also features in more unique sweets like custard halwa, a jelly-like dessert with a delightful texture. It can even enhance traditional recipes like kheer or falooda, adding creaminess and a subtle vanilla flavor. Its dual ability to thicken and flavor makes it a favorite shortcut in many kitchens.

Ultimately, custard powder has become more than just a convenience item—it’s a beloved element of India’s dessert culture. From simple treats like fruit custard to innovative creations, it continues to offer a versatile, accessible, and delicious way to enjoy sweet dishes across Indian households.

How to select custard powder

There are various brands available in variety of flavourings in the market. Select as required. Check packaging details before purchasing.

Culinary Uses of custard powder

Craving for sweets, here is the solution to fulfil your sweet desires, try these recipes with custard, it’s really too good. Make it in advance and enjoy.

1. Crunchy Apple Custard transform the dessert from a sinful course of the meal to a guilt-free and healthy one without compromising on taste!

2. Fruity Chocolate Tarts chocolate for the chocolate lovers, fruits for the fruit lovers and custard for the kids—in short fruity chocolate tarts are sure to please everybody!

3. Apricot Stew with Vanilla Custard apricots, with their naturally rich flavour and texture get all the more enjoyable after a simple process of deseeding and stewing.

4. Mango Custard silky smooth custard with chunky mango cubes. “Doodh Keri” or milk custard is part-and-parcel of our childhood memories.

Use custard powder sauces over puddings, cakes and other desserts.

· Pour over mixed fruits to make fruit salad with custard.

· Use as a sauce poured over jellies.

· Combine with mixed fruits and pour over tart shells to make fruit tarts. Bake or chill. Serve with glaze and fruit slices.

How to store custard powder

Store in an air tight container in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Health Benefits of custard powder

It is a good alternative for people who want to avoid eggs. It thus aids in minimizing the cholesterol levels in a custard.