Name: No-Bake Chocolate Custard Dessert
Ingredients: 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3 tbsp cornstarch; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 egg yolks; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; Optional: 1/2 cup whipped topping (for extra fluffiness); 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tbsp butter (adds shine and richness)

Description

This decadent no-bake dessert features two irresistible layers — a silky vanilla custard base and a rich, glossy chocolate ganache topping. It’s perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or when you need an easy yet elegant treat that requires zero oven time.

Ingredients

Scale

Custard Layer:

2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
4 egg yolks
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
8 oz cream cheese, softened
Optional: 1/2 cup whipped topping (for extra fluffiness)

Chocolate Ganache Layer:

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
1 tbsp butter (adds shine and richness)

Instructions

Prepare the Custard Base:
In a saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble slightly.
Temper the Egg Yolks:
In a bowl, lightly whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add 1/4 cup of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking, then return the yolk mixture to the saucepan.
Finish the Custard:
Cook for 2–3 more minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool for 10–15 minutes.
Mix with Cream Cheese:
Beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the cooled custard and beat until creamy. Fold in whipped topping if using.
Chill the Custard:
Pour custard into a glass or ceramic 9×9-inch dish. Smooth the top. Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up slightly.
Prepare the Ganache:
Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate and butter in a bowl. Let sit 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
Add Ganache Layer:
Gently pour ganache over the chilled custard layer and spread evenly.
Chill Until Set:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until fully set.

Notes

For a lighter custard, increase the whipped topping to 1 cup.
Add a crust: Use a graham cracker or Oreo crust for added texture.
Flavor twist: Add a drop of almond or coconut extract to the custard.
Storage: Keep covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Best served cold.