Classic Vanilla Custard

#### Ingredients

- 2 cups whole milk (or cream for a richer custard)

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 4 large egg yolks

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- Pinch of salt

- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker custard)

#### Instructions

**1. Heat the Milk**  

In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk (or cream) until it’s just about to boil, but don’t let it fully boil. Stir occasionally to prevent it from scalding.

**2. Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar**  

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and a pinch of salt. If you're using cornstarch, add it here as well.

**3. Temper the Eggs**  

Once the milk is heated, slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly. This step helps bring the egg mixture up to temperature without scrambling the eggs. Gradually add the rest of the milk in this way.

**4. Cook the Custard**  

Pour the egg and milk mixture back into the saucepan and return it to low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. Keep stirring until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon. This can take about 5-10 minutes.

**5. Finish with Vanilla**  

Once the custard has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

**6. Cool the Custard**  

Pour the custard through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any curdled bits. Allow it to cool, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. If you're serving it warm, it’s ready to go; if you want it cold, cover it with plastic wrap, ensuring it touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin, and chill in the fridge for about 2 hours.

Enjoy your homemade custard! It’s perfect on its own or with desserts like pies, cakes, or fruit.