Imagine a dessert that’s ready in just five minutes, skips the oven entirely, yet tastes like it came from a bakery. This 5-Minute Lemon Custard is smooth, bright with citrus, and perfectly sweet without being heavy. It’s your go-to for warm days, sudden cravings, or when you want a dessert that looks and tastes impressive with almost no effort.
5-Minute Lemon Custard
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Instant lemon pudding mix | 1 (3.4 oz) box | Vanilla pudding with lemon zest/juice also works |
| Cold milk | 1½ cups | Dairy or unsweetened almond/oat milk |
| Whipped topping | ½ cup | Cool Whip or Greek yogurt for extra tang |
| Fresh lemon zest | 1–2 tsp | Optional, but highly recommended |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Add if using vanilla pudding |
Instructions
Whisk the Base
In a medium bowl, whisk the cold milk with the pudding mix for about 2 minutes until it becomes thick and velvety. The faster you whisk, the smoother your custard will be.
Add Flavor and Creaminess
Gently fold in the whipped topping or Greek yogurt to make the custard creamy and light. Stir in fresh lemon zest and juice for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Chill or Serve
For the best texture, let the custard chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. If you’re impatient, you can serve it right away.
Serving Ideas
- Classic: Top with fresh berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries.
- Tropical: Add toasted coconut and diced mango for a sunny twist.
- Crunchy: Sprinkle with crushed graham crackers, shortbread, or biscotti.
- Fancy: Layer with raspberry sauce in a glass for a dessert parfait.
- Brunch: Serve alongside buttery croissants or fresh scones.
This 5-Minute Lemon Custard proves that simple ingredients and minimal effort can still produce a dessert that feels indulgent and elegant.
