Do you love custard powder? I know I do! It’s one of my favorite desserts. But what if you’re all out of custard powder and don’t want to run to the store? Don’t worry, there is a great substitute that you’re going to love. In this blog post, we will discuss the best custard powder substitutes so that you can make your favorite dessert no matter what!
What is Custard Powder?
Custard powder is a key ingredient in many desserts, including custard pie and pudding. It’s also used to thicken and flavor sauces, make cream fillings for cakes, and add richness to ice cream.
Most custard powder brands contain cornflour (cornstarch), vanilla flavoring, and coloring. Some also include salt, egg replacer, and other flavorings.Custard powder is a combination that may be used to make fresh custard for a variety of delectable meals and desserts. It’s not the same as instant custard, though. You’ll need to combine it with milk and cook it before using it.
Homemade Custard Powder
Homemade custard is prepared from scratch by combining milk, sugar, vanilla, and egg yolks. Manufacturers in the food sector kept their custard powders consistent in color to aid consumers, but there are no egg yolks in the dry powder versions. Dry milk powder may be found in some custard powder variants. If you’re concerned about any of the ingredients used in manufactured custard powder, double-check the label.
You can easily make your own custard powder at home with just a few simple ingredients:
- Cornflour (cornstarch)
- Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- Food coloring (optional)
- Salt (optional)
Simply mix all of the ingredients together until they’re well combined, then store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Use as you would store-bought custard powder in any recipe.
Custard Powder Substitutes
If you don’t have any custard powder on hand (or can’t find it at the store), there are several substitutes you can use. Here are some of our favorites:
- Instant vanilla pudding mix
If you have run out of custard powder and need a quick fix, vanilla pudding mix is a great substitute. This option includes comparable thickening components to create the consistency you want in a custard. Due to its color and taste, vanilla flavoring is often used by many people. For an added touch, try using unsweetened vanilla alternatives or chocolate pudding mix.
- Cornstarch
Cornstarch is a common component of custard powder, which explains why it makes such an excellent replacement. It’s the starch that comes from corn grain. It’s a great thickening agent and can help you get the same consistency in your custard as you want.
- Arrowroot powder
Arrowroot powder is a white powder made from the root of the plant Maranta arundinacea. It’s often used as a thickener or binder in recipes, and it can be used as a custard powder substitute. Arrowroot has a neutral flavor, so it won’t affect the taste of your dish.
- Tapioca flour/starch
tapioca flour may also be used instead of custard powder, which is just a powdered custard. Tapioca powder is an option that’s similar to tapioca pearls. Pearls should be soaked before being cooked and are generally used in puddings rather than custards. Tapioca powder has a comparable texture to cornstarch and helps to thicken foods.
- Cornflour With Cornstarch
If none of the following alternatives work, cornflour and cornstarch can suffice. The yellow color that distinguishes a homemade custard from flour-based recipes is provided by the cornflour. Cornstarch, on the other hand, is used to thicken things. These two ingredients, when combined with vanilla essence or extract, can be used as a custard powder alternative.
- All-Purpose Flour
If you’re in a pinch and don’t have any of the other substitutes on hand, all-purpose flour can be used as a last resort. This is not the ideal option, however, as it will result in a custard with a starchy flavor and a slightly different texture. All-purpose flour is a wheat flour that’s milled to have a medium gluten content. It can be used in custards, but it’s not the best option.
Use Substitutes To Achieve Great Results!
So, don’t let a lack of custard powder stop you from making your favorite dessert! There are plenty of substitutes that will help you achieve the same great results. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be able to make a delicious and satisfying custard pudding. Thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoy trying out these substitutes!