You can cut corners and use packet custard, but why not make the real thing - it's delicious. It also makes good use of the egg yolks left over from the friand slice.

Ingredients

• 1 vanilla pod or ½ tsp vanilla essence
• 2 cups milk (preferably whole milk)
• 6 egg yolks
• ¼ cup sugar

Method

1. Heat the vanilla pod with the milk until it reaches boiling point. Stand for 5 minutes.
2. Put the egg yolks and sugar in the top of a double-boiler, mix well. Gradually pour in the warm milk and stir constantly to blend.
3. Cook the custard over simmering water and stir constantly until it thickens. Cool. Remove the vanilla pod if using, wash and store for future use.

Cooks Tips

When using a vanilla pod, you can use it as is, or split it lengthwise and scoop the seeds into the milk along with the pod. The pod can be washed, dried and used again. Or add to your caster sugar bin.