The short answer to the question, "Can I buy dairy free custard?" is a resounding yes. The market for plant-based and allergy-friendly foods has expanded dramatically, making creamy, decadent dairy-free custard widely accessible. Whether you prefer a ready-made option from the supermarket or a homemade version, there is a custard alternative to suit every taste and need.
Ready-Made Dairy-Free Custard Options
For those seeking convenience, numerous pre-made dairy-free custards are available in both chilled and long-life varieties. These products are perfect for a quick dessert or a hassle-free addition to your favourite pie or crumble.
Popular Brands to Look For
- Alpro: A market leader in plant-based products, Alpro offers a popular vanilla soya custard that is smooth, creamy, and comes ready-to-eat in a carton. It's a widely available and reliable choice, often found in the dessert or dairy-free aisle of most major supermarkets.
- Orgran: If you prefer to mix your own, Orgran offers an Instant Custard Mix that is not only dairy-free but also gluten-free and egg-free, making it suitable for multiple dietary restrictions.
- Coyo: This brand offers a dairy-free coconut custard, which is known for its rich and indulgent flavour, made with premium organic coconut. It is an excellent option for those who enjoy the tropical notes of coconut.
Where to Find Ready-Made Custard
You can typically find these products in a few different locations within your local grocery store:
- Dairy-Free Aisle: Many stores group all their plant-based alternatives, including milks, yogurts, and custards, in a single section.
- Dessert/Pudding Section: Pre-made custards are often stocked alongside traditional dairy custards and ready-to-eat puddings.
- International Foods Aisle: Some specialty custard powders or products from international brands might be located here.
How to Make Homemade Dairy-Free Custard
Creating your own dairy-free custard from scratch provides complete control over ingredients and flavour. It's a simple process that yields a rich and creamy dessert in minutes.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Custard
- Plant-Based Milk: Soy milk is a popular choice for its richness, though oat milk also works well. For a richer, more decadent result, use full-fat canned coconut milk.
- Thickening Agent: Cornflour (cornstarch) is the most common thickener for homemade vegan custards. For a corn-free option, arrowroot powder can be used.
- Sweetener: Caster sugar is a standard choice, but maple syrup or agave can also be used, though they will alter the flavour profile.
- Flavouring: Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste is essential for that classic custard flavour. A small pinch of turmeric can also be added for a traditional yellow colour.
Simple Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare a slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornflour and a splash of cold plant-based milk until smooth and lump-free.
- Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the remaining plant-based milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk to combine.
- Thicken the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the cornflour slurry. Continue to stir constantly until the mixture begins to simmer and thicken. This process takes a few minutes, and consistent stirring prevents lumps.
- Finish and serve: Once the custard has reached your desired thickness, remove it from the heat. Serve warm, or cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and chill for later.
Comparison: Ready-Made vs. Homemade Dairy-Free Custard
| Feature | Ready-Made Custard | Homemade Custard |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | High. Simply pour and serve. | Low to Medium. Requires measuring, mixing, and heating. |
| Cost | Typically more expensive per serving. | Less expensive, especially for large batches. |
| Ingredients | Pre-determined list; may contain additives or preservatives. | Full control over all ingredients; can be customised to preference. |
| Customisation | Limited to brand flavour. | High. Can adjust sweetness, thickness, and flavourings. |
| Texture | Consistent across batches. | Can vary depending on thickening agent and cooking time. |
| Shelf Life | Often long-life before opening, but shorter once opened. | Best consumed within a few days of preparation. |
Tips for Perfecting Your Dairy-Free Custard
- Avoid Lumps: The key to a smooth custard is to mix the cornflour with cold liquid before adding it to the heat. Also, stir constantly throughout the cooking process.
- Adjust Consistency: For a thicker custard, add a little extra cornflour slurry. For a runnier, pouring-style custard, simply reduce the amount of cornflour or add a splash more milk at the end.
- Choose the Right Milk: Full-fat coconut milk will give you the richest, creamiest texture, while lighter options like almond or soy milk will produce a thinner custard.
- Enhance Flavour: For a more complex flavour profile, try adding a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods to the milk while it heats. Remember to strain them out before serving.
- Preventing a 'Skin': To avoid a skin forming on the top of cooling custard, place a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface.
Conclusion: Finding and Enjoying Dairy-Free Custard
The availability of dairy-free custard has never been better. With reliable and delicious ready-made options from brands like Alpro and Orgran, or the simple joy of creating a perfectly customised homemade batch, dairy-free dessert lovers have plenty of choices. By exploring both supermarket shelves and your own kitchen, you can easily enjoy a classic, creamy custard experience without any dairy at all. The shift towards plant-based foods has firmly placed dairy-free custard on the map, ensuring no one has to miss out on this timeless treat.
For more vegan dessert ideas and recipes, check out the extensive collection at The Vegan Society.
Note: Always check the ingredient list on packaged products for specific allergens, as some items may be processed in facilities that also handle dairy.
Keypoints
- Widespread Availability: Ready-made dairy-free custards are widely available in major supermarkets and online retailers, offered by brands like Alpro and Orgran.
- Homemade Options: Dairy-free custard can be easily made at home using plant-based milks like soy, oat, or coconut milk, and a thickening agent like cornflour.
- Customisation: Homemade custard allows for full control over ingredients, sweetness, and consistency, catering to specific tastes and dietary needs.
- Key Ingredients: Essential ingredients include a plant-based milk, a thickening agent (cornflour or arrowroot), a sweetener, and vanilla for flavour.
- Storage Tips: To prevent a 'skin' from forming on homemade custard, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface while it cools.
- Allergen Checking: It is crucial to always read the ingredient list and allergen warnings on packaged goods to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements.
