There are few things in life more comforting and indulgent than a decadent trifle, and one of the key components that can make or break this classic dessert is the custard. But fear not, because I’m here to show you just how easy it is to make the perfect custard for your trifle, using the beloved Birds Custard brand.

First things first, let’s gather our ingredients. You will need Birds Custard powder, sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. You can also add a splash of cream for an extra luxurious touch if you’re feeling particularly indulgent. Now that we have everything we need, let’s get started!

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the custard powder and sugar. The classic Birds Custard powder is a beautifully rich and creamy yellow, so you can already start imagining how gorgeous your trifle is going to look once this custard is added to it. Once the custard powder and sugar are nicely mixed, slowly pour in a small amount of the milk, stirring to form a smooth paste. This step is important for avoiding lumps, so take your time and use a whisk to ensure everything is well combined before adding more milk.

Next, heat the remaining milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Now comes the exciting part – slowly pour the hot milk into the custard paste, stirring constantly. The key here is to pour the milk in a steady stream, all the while whisking vigorously to prevent any lumps from forming. As you continue to stir, you will notice the custard magically thicken and become beautifully smooth and creamy.

Once all the milk has been incorporated, return the custard mixture to the saucepan and place it back on the heat. Keep stirring constantly and bring the custard to a gentle boil. As soon as it begins to bubble, lower the heat and let the custard simmer for a couple of minutes, while stirring all the while. This simmering process is important for cooking off the raw taste of the custard powder and ensuring a silky smooth texture.

After a few minutes, remove the custard from the heat and stir in a dash of vanilla extract for that extra touch of flavor. If you’re feeling a little extra, you can also stir in a splash of cream at this stage. The result should be a beautifully thick and smooth custard that is absolutely perfect for layering within your trifle.

The final step is to let the custard cool completely before assembling your trifle. You can do this by pouring the custard into a clean bowl and covering it with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Once cooled, your Birds Custard is ready to be mixed with layers of sponge cake, fruit, jelly, and whipped cream to create a show-stopping trifle that is sure to impress.

And there you have it – the secret to making the perfect Birds Custard for your trifle. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a dessert that is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. So go ahead, get creative, and have fun experimenting with different flavor combinations to create a trifle that is all your own. After all, when it comes to trifle, the more layers, the merrier!