Is custard high in dairy? A nutrition diet breakdown

November 10, 2025 •

3 min read

Did you know that a single cup of regular fat custard can contain significant amounts of calcium and protein, largely due to its dairy content? The classic dessert's creamy texture and rich flavor often prompt the question: is custard high in dairy? Understanding its components is key for managing your nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

Traditional custard is made primarily with dairy ingredients like milk or cream. Its nutritional composition, including the exact dairy content, varies depending on the specific recipe. Fortunately, for those with dietary restrictions, excellent non-dairy and lactose-free versions are widely available.

Key Points

High in Dairy: Traditional custard is inherently high in dairy, relying on milk or cream for its creamy texture and richness.
Source of Nutrients: Dairy-based custard provides beneficial nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins from milk and eggs.
Impact on Digestion: For those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, traditional custard can cause digestive issues, but dairy-free versions are a safe alternative.
Dairy-Free Options: Excellent plant-based custards can be made using milks such as oat, almond, or coconut, often thickened with cornstarch.
Moderation is Key: Regardless of the ingredients, custard is a dessert and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet due to its sugar and fat content.
Homemade Control: Making custard from scratch, whether with dairy or dairy-free ingredients, offers complete control over the sugar and fat content for a healthier option.

The Dairy Component in Traditional Custard

To answer the question, "is custard high in dairy?", it's essential to look at its core ingredients. Traditional custard recipes are fundamentally built upon dairy. The classic formulation typically includes milk and/or cream, egg yolks, and sugar. The dairy component is what contributes to its signature smooth, rich, and velvety texture. The fat content from the cream, in particular, enhances the mouthfeel and flavor.

For example, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has specific regulations for frozen custard, mandating that it contains a minimum of 10% milkfat and 1.4% egg yolk solids. This regulatory detail underscores just how central dairy is to the product's very definition and consistency. While the fat content can vary based on the type of dairy used, such as whole milk versus heavy cream, the presence of dairy is non-negotiable in its traditional form.

Nutritional Profile of Dairy-Based Custard

Consuming custard with dairy can provide a range of essential nutrients. This is due to the inherent properties of milk and eggs used in its preparation.

Calcium: A primary benefit of dairy in custard is its high calcium content, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Protein: Eggs and milk are both excellent sources of high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Vitamins: Custard can offer essential vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin D, which are important for vision, immune system function, and calcium absorption.
Easily Digested: For those without allergies or intolerances, the milk proteins (casein and whey) in custard are relatively easy to digest, making it a soothing dessert option.

Dairy-Free Alternatives for Custard Lovers

For individuals with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those following a vegan diet, traditional custard is off-limits. However, modern culinary innovations and readily available ingredients mean delicious custard can still be enjoyed. Dairy-free alternatives offer a solution that maintains a similar flavor and texture profile.

Here are some popular substitutes:

Plant-Based Milks: Oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk are popular choices for a creamy base. Oat milk often provides a similar richness to dairy milk, while coconut milk or coconut cream can mimic the fat content of heavy cream for an extra-luxurious texture.
Thickening Agents: To achieve the thick, velvety consistency without eggs (for vegan versions) or with plant-based milks, thickening agents like cornstarch or arrowroot powder are essential.

Comparison: Traditional Dairy vs. Dairy-Free Custard


Feature	Traditional Custard	Dairy-Free Custard
Key Ingredients	Milk, cream, egg yolks, sugar	Plant-based milk (oat, coconut), cornstarch, sugar
Dairy Content	High	None
Lactose	Present	Absent
Allergens	Dairy (milk protein) and egg	Varies based on plant-based milk (e.g., soy, nuts)
Texture	Rich, creamy, velvety	Can be customized; often thickened with cornstarch
Nutritional Profile	Source of calcium, protein, vitamins A, D, B12	Varies; often fortified plant-based milks can provide nutrients

Dietary Considerations: Is Custard Right for You?

For those managing a nutrition diet, the choice to consume custard comes down to individual needs and preferences. Traditional custard, while offering valuable nutrients like calcium and protein, is also high in fat, cholesterol, and sugar, especially when made with full-fat dairy and served in large portions. Moderation is key to balancing these nutritional aspects within a healthy lifestyle.

Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort, bloating, or other symptoms from traditional custard. Dairy-free versions, which are free from lactose, are an excellent alternative. Similarly, those with milk protein allergies must avoid traditional custard, but can safely enjoy plant-based versions.

Conclusion: The Right Custard for Your Nutrition Diet

In conclusion, traditional custard is, by definition, high in dairy. It contains milk and/or cream as fundamental ingredients, which contribute both to its rich flavor and its nutritional content, including calcium and protein. However, the versatility of this dessert means there are numerous delicious and healthy alternatives for those with specific dietary needs, allergies, or intolerances. By using plant-based milks and alternative thickening agents, you can enjoy a creamy and satisfying custard without any dairy. Whether you opt for a classic recipe or a dairy-free version, enjoying custard as part of a balanced diet is achievable. The right custard is simply the one that best fits your nutritional requirements and personal taste.

For more detailed nutritional information and regulatory definitions of dairy products like frozen custard, you can refer to resources from reputable organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Frequently Asked Questions

No, while traditional custard is made with dairy (milk and/or cream), many excellent dairy-free and vegan alternatives exist. These versions use plant-based milks like almond, soy, or coconut milk.

Traditional custard is primarily made with milk and cream. The ratio and type of dairy (e.g., whole milk, heavy cream) can vary depending on the recipe, which affects the final richness and dairy content.

No, traditional custard is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance. However, you can make custard using lactose-free milk or plant-based alternatives to avoid digestive discomfort.

For a dairy-free custard, you can use plant-based milks like oat milk, almond milk, or full-fat coconut milk. Thickeners like cornstarch or arrowroot powder are also used to achieve the correct consistency.

Yes, custard can offer health benefits due to its ingredients. The dairy provides calcium and protein, while eggs contribute additional protein and vitamins. However, its high sugar and fat content means it should be consumed in moderation.

To make a healthier custard, you can use low-fat dairy or plant-based milk and reduce the amount of added sugar. You can also incorporate nutrient-rich ingredients like fresh fruit to boost its nutritional value.

Yes, there can be a significant difference. Store-bought custards often contain more sugar, and sometimes more saturated fat, than homemade versions where you have full control over the ingredients.