Keywords: no bake dessert, custard, chocolate dessert, creamy dessert, easy sweet recipe

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cook Time:
10 minutes

Total Time:
2 hours

Yield: 8 servings

Introduction

This No-Bake Chocolate Custard Dessert is the perfect combination of smooth vanilla custard and rich, silky chocolate topping.
With its creamy layers and decadent flavor, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
The best part? It requires no baking at all, making it ideal for quick preparation on busy days.
At tinsuf, we love creating desserts that are both elegant and simple, and this recipe delivers on both counts.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a luxurious treat, this dessert will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

Ingredients

Custard Layer

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a few spoonfuls of the hot milk mixture to the yolks while whisking to temper them. Gradually pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
3. Continue cooking the custard over medium-low heat until thick and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla extract. Pour the custard into a glass or ceramic dish and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
4. For the chocolate topping, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chocolate and butter. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
5. Pour the chocolate mixture over the chilled custard layer and spread evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm.
6. Slice into squares or wedges and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Troubleshooting & Consistency Tips

• If the custard is too runny, continue cooking gently while whisking until it thickens. Cornstarch needs to reach a gentle simmer to fully activate.
• For lumpy custard, blend with an immersion blender before chilling to achieve a silky texture.
• If the chocolate layer cracks when slicing, let the dessert sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before cutting with a warm, sharp knife.
• Make sure the custard is completely cool before adding the chocolate topping to prevent layers from mixing.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dessert is best served chilled.

To freeze, wrap the entire dish tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

The custard layer can be made a day ahead, refrigerated, and topped with chocolate just before serving for maximum freshness.

Why This Recipe Works

This no-bake dessert combines a creamy, egg-based custard stabilized with cornstarch for a luscious yet firm texture.
The tempered egg yolks create richness without curdling, while the silky chocolate ganache layer adds a luxurious finish.
The contrast between the smooth custard and dense chocolate topping makes this dessert irresistibly decadent while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare.

Expert Tips

• Use high-quality chocolate for the topping to maximize flavor and shine.
• Chill each layer thoroughly before adding the next to keep the dessert neat and well-defined.
• For a flavor twist, infuse the milk with citrus zest or a cinnamon stick before making the custard.
• Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream for an elevated presentation.