Name: Banana Custard Cups
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour.; ¼ cup powdered sugar.; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced.; 2 medium bananas, sliced.; 2 cups milk.; 3 egg yolks.; ½ cup granulated sugar.; 3 tablespoons cornstarch.; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.; A pinch of salt.; Fresh mint leaves.

Creamy Banana Custard Cups are the perfect combination of a buttery crust and a smooth, banana-flavored custard. These delightful cups are easy to make and offer a rich, satisfying taste. The crust is made from a simple blend of flour, powdered sugar, and butter, while the custard is a mix of sliced bananas, milk, egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch. Top each cup with additional banana slices and fresh mint for a beautiful presentation. With just 20 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking, this refreshing dessert is sure to be a hit.

Creamy Banana Custard Cups

Creamy Banana Custard Cups are a delicious blend of buttery crust and smooth banana custard. This dessert is rich, sweet, and has a delightful banana flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy crust and a creamy custard, each bite offers a satisfying contrast in texture, making these custard cups a crowd-pleasing treat.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 1 cup, for the crust
Powdered sugar: ¼ cup, to sweeten the crust
Unsalted butter: ½ cup, chilled and diced, for a flaky crust
Medium bananas: 2, sliced, for the custard and topping
Milk: 2 cups, to form the custard base
Egg yolks: 3, to thicken the custard
Granulated sugar: ½ cup, for sweetness in the custard
Cornstarch: 3 tablespoons, to help thicken the custard
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the flavor
Salt: A pinch, to balance the sweetness
Fresh mint leaves: Optional, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2:: For the crust: In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and chilled butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a muffin tin to form small crusts.
Step 3:: Bake the crusts for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before adding the custard.
Step 4:: For the custard: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to steam (do not let it boil). In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 5:: Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while continuously whisking to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens and begins to boil.
Step 6:: Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly.
Step 7:: Pour the cooled custard into the prepared crusts and top each with fresh banana slices.
Step 8:: Refrigerate the cups for at least 2 hours to allow the custard to set.
Step 9:: Before serving, garnish with additional banana slices and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the custard cups chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

For a richer custard, use whole milk instead of low-fat milk.
Try adding a splash of banana liqueur to enhance the banana flavor.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chill the custard cups overnight for a firmer, more flavorful set, as recommended by pastry chefs.

Perfecting the Banana Custard Cups

To achieve a perfectly smooth custard, make sure to whisk constantly while tempering the eggs with the warm milk, ensuring no lumps form. Adding a splash of vanilla extract at the end enhances the flavor.

Customizing Your Custard Cups

Add a layer of caramel sauce over the crust before pouring in the custard for a sweet surprise. You can also try adding chocolate chips for a chocolate-banana variation.

FAQs

Can I make these custard cups in advance?

Yes, these custard cups can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.

Can I freeze the custard cups?

It’s not recommended to freeze them, as the custard’s texture may change when thawed.

How can I prevent the custard from forming a skin?

Cover the custard with plastic wrap directly on the surface while it cools to prevent a skin from forming.

What other toppings can I use?

Try topping with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Summary

These Creamy Banana Custard Cups offer a delightful blend of a buttery crust and smooth banana custard. Starting with a simple crust made from flour, powdered sugar, and butter, the dessert is filled with a rich banana custard made by tempering egg yolks with warm milk and thickening it with cornstarch. Once set in the fridge, these custard cups become the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and banana goodness, ideal for both everyday treats and special occasions. Garnish with fresh banana slices and mint leaves for an extra touch of flavor and elegance.