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Easy Fruit Custard in 30 Minutes Everyone Loves

Fruit custard is a classic milk-based dessert made by combining creamy custard with fresh, chopped fruits. It’s light, refreshing, and one of the easiest homemade fruit custard recipes you can prepare, perfect for busy days when you want a quick dessert that still feels special.

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This easy fruit custard comes together in under 30 minutes, uses simple ingredients, contains no eggs, and is loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, summer gathering, or just a sweet treat at home, this recipe delivers consistent results every time.

Why This Fruit Custard Recipe Works

Unlike many recipes that rely on heavy cream or complicated steps, this version keeps things simple while delivering a smooth, creamy texture.

  • No eggs or baking required
  • Balanced sweetness that doesn’t overpower the fruits
  • Uses everyday ingredients
  • Easy to customize with seasonal fruits
  • Beginner-friendly and kid-approved

This approach also prevents common issues like curdling or watery custard.

Total Time & Yield

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 12 to 15 minutes
  • Cooling time: 5 minutes
  • Optional chilling: 5 to 10 minutes

Total time: ~25 to 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Milk
  • Custard powder
  • Sugar
  • Apple
  • Banana
  • Grapes
  • Pomegranate

Tip: Use ripe but firm fruits to maintain texture in the custard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Fruit Custard

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Base

In a small bowl, mix custard powder with a few tablespoons of cold milk until smooth and lump-free.

Step 2: Cook Until Smooth & Thick

Heat the remaining milk in a saucepan. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Slowly pour in the custard mixture while whisking continuously. Cook on low heat until the custard thickens to a pourable, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Cool the Custard Properly

Remove from heat and let the custard cool for a few minutes. This step is important to prevent fruit curdling later.

Step 4: Prepare & Add Fruits

Wash, peel, and chop fruits into bite-sized pieces. Add them only after the custard is warm, not hot.

Step 5: Final Mix & Chill (Optional)

Mix gently, then serve immediately or chill briefly before serving.

Best Fruits for Fruit Custard

Choosing the right fruits makes a big difference in texture and taste.

Best options:

  • Apple
  • Banana
  • Grapes
  • Pomegranate
  • Mango (seasonal)

Avoid:

  • Pineapple
  • Orange
  • Kiwi

These acidic fruits can cause curdling when mixed with milk-based custard.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Adding fruits while custard is hot
  • Overheating after adding custard powder
  • Using too much custard powder (leads to gummy texture)
  • Skipping constant whisking

Avoiding these ensures a smooth, creamy fruit custard every time.

Easy Variations You Can Try

Fruit Custard

  • Eggless fruit custard: This recipe already is
  • Vegan fruit custard: Use plant-based milk and vegan custard powder
  • Low-sugar version: Reduce sugar and rely on fruit sweetness
  • Indian-style fruit custard: Add cardamom or saffron

Each variation keeps the dessert quick and flexible.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Can be made 6 to 8 hours in advance
  • Store covered in the refrigerator
  • Best consumed within 24 hours
  • Stir gently before serving if chilled

You might notice a bit of moisture forming after a while, and that’s perfectly normal.

Is Fruit Custard a Healthy Dessert?

Fruit custard offers a balance of carbohydrates, calcium, and natural fruit fiber. While it does contain sugar, portion control makes it suitable as an occasional treat, especially for kids.

You can easily make it lighter by reducing sugar or using low-fat milk.

Serving Suggestions

  • After lunch or dinner
  • As a summer dessert
  • For birthday parties and gatherings
  • As a kid-friendly sweet snack

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does fruit custard curdle?
Usually due to adding fruits to hot custard or using acidic fruits.

Can I make this without custard powder?
Yes, you can substitute cornstarch, but it needs careful cooking and constant stirring to achieve a similar thickness.

How long does fruit custard last?
Up to 24 hours when refrigerated properly.

Is this dessert safe for kids?
Yes, it’s mild, egg-free, and generally suitable for children when made with fresh ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Fruit Custard recipe proves that a delicious dessert doesn’t need hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients, the right fruit choices, and a smooth custard base, you can prepare a creamy, refreshing dessert in under 30 minutes, perfect for any occasion.

Fruit Custard

Fruit Custard Recipe

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A creamy, refreshing fruit custard made with milk, custard powder, and fresh fruits. This easy dessert comes together in under 30 minutes and is perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Indian, international
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 tbsp custard powder (vanilla or plain)
  • 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup apple, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 cup banana, sliced
  • 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved
  • 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Equipment

Method
 

  1. Prepare the custard slurry
    In a small bowl, mix the custard powder with 3 tablespoons of cold milk until smooth and lump-free.
  2. Heat the milk
    Pour the remaining milk into a saucepan. Add sugar and heat over medium flame until the milk is warm (do not boil).
  3. Cook the custard
    Lower the heat and slowly add the custard slurry while whisking continuously. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
  4. Cool the custard
    Remove from heat and let the custard cool until warm. Stir occasionally to prevent skin formation.
  5. Prepare the fruits
    Wash, peel, and chop all fruits into bite-sized pieces.
  6. Combine and finish
    Once the custard is warm (not hot), gently fold in the fruits. Mix carefully.
  7. Chill or serve
    Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSugar: 22g

Notes

  • Always cool the custard before adding fruits to prevent curdling
  • For thicker custard, increase custard powder by ½ tablespoon
  • For a lighter version, reduce sugar and rely on fruit sweetness

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