Under 30 minSnackFrenchLunchDessertDinner
Microwave Vanilla Custard
Vanilla custard ready in 22 minutes, microwave included. No bain-marie, no caramel to watch, no stress. Just eggs, milk, sugar and a blast in the microwave. The kind of dessert you decide to make after lunch and serve at dinner.

- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 12 min
- Total
- 22 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
Method
- 1Crack the eggs into a bowl. Whisk them with the sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture turns pale and thick. Add the whole milk and whisk until you get a smooth, lump-free custard.💡 TipDon't skip the whitening step: whisking eggs and sugar until the mixture changes colour and texture is what gives the custard its proper consistency.
- 2Pour the custard into a pyrex dish (or any microwave-safe container). Cook at full power for 12 to 15 minutes. Once done, leave to cool at room temperature uncovered.💡 TipCooking time depends on your microwave and the size of the dish. At 12 minutes the centre may still be slightly wobbly: that's fine, it finishes setting as it cools. Still not set after 15 minutes? Add 2 more minutes.
- 3Once fully cooled, place in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Serve cold, drizzled with caramel sauce.💡 TipA few hours in the fridge is good, overnight is even better. The custard holds its shape better and the flavours develop.
Tips & variations
Store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly here. No need to make it from scratch for this quick version.
You can make individual flans in pyrex ramekins. Reduce the cooking time to 8 to 10 minutes and check the centre.
The custard keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered with cling film.
You can make individual flans in pyrex ramekins. Reduce the cooking time to 8 to 10 minutes and check the centre.
The custard keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days, covered with cling film.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share yours!
Compose. Twist. Invent. Cook. ❤️
All recipes ›Also for an afternoon treat
Cravings for 4 PM.