Fruit Custard has long been a beloved dessert, cherished for its creamy texture and the delightful contrast of sweet and tangy fruit flavors. The Tropical Twist Fruit Custard elevates this classic delight by incorporating an array of exotic fruits, each bite transporting you to a sun-kissed island paradise. The velvety custard, infused with a hint of vanilla and coconut, perfectly complements the juicy freshness of mango, pineapple, and kiwi, making it a visually stunning and irresistible dessert.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 6

From Your Pantry

• 4 cups of Milk (use lactose-free for allergies)
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 cup Shredded Coconut, toasted

Additional Grocery Items Needed

• 1 Mango, diced
• 1 cup Pineapple, diced
• 2 Kiwis, peeled and diced
• Mint leaves for garnish

Preparation

1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the eggs. Gradually add a cup of the hot milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to temper them. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the custard cool slightly, then cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
5. Once chilled, fold in the toasted coconut into the custard. Layer the custard in serving dishes with the diced mango, pineapple, and kiwi, creating a visually appealing pattern.
6. Garnish with mint leaves before serving.

Expert Tips

• For a smoother texture, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
• Customize the fruit selection based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Berries, peaches, or papaya make great additions.
• To keep the fruits vibrant and prevent them from becoming soggy, fold them into the custard just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Complement the Tropical Twist Fruit Custard with a light, sparkling beverage such as a coconut water spritz or a chilled glass of Prosecco. The dessert's creaminess and the freshness of the fruits pair wonderfully with something effervescent, elevating the overall dining experience. Serve this dessert as a refreshing finale to a summer barbecue or a festive dinner party.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 8g
• Sugars: 30g
• Allergens: Milk, Eggs, Coconut

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Tropical Twist Fruit Custard. Feel inspired to share this recipe with friends and family, and don't hesitate to experiment with different fruits or garnishes to make this dish uniquely yours. Cooking is a journey of discovery and creativity, and we encourage you to embrace it fully.