Light, silky, and kissed with real lemon zest, this easy stovetop lemon cream is the ultimate comfort dessert. Made with simple ingredients and ready in no time, it’s a refreshing treat you’ll crave again and again.
Author:Amal
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4–6 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:European-inspired
Ingredients
Scale
Zest of 1 lemon
1/2 liter (18 oz) whole milk
2 eggs
120 grams (4.2 oz) granulated sugar
10 grams (1 teaspoon) vanilla sugar
50 grams (1.7 oz) cornstarch
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, add the milk and lemon zest. Warm gently over low heat until just hot (do not boil), then remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes to infuse.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to avoid curdling.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens into a silky, custard-like cream (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat. Optional: strain to remove zest for an ultra-smooth finish.
Pour into individual cups or ramekins and let cool slightly before refrigerating. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
For extra zing, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking.
To make it dairy-free, you can use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Top with crushed shortbread cookies, whipped cream, or fresh berries for an elegant finish.
Best served chilled, but can also be enjoyed slightly warm for a cozy treat.