Birds Custard Vegan Recipes for Delicious Dairy-Free Treats

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Bird’s Custard is a classic British dessert staple, beloved for its smooth, creamy texture and comforting vanilla flavor. Traditionally made with eggs and dairy, it can be a challenge for those following a vegan lifestyle or with allergies to enjoy this nostalgic treat.

Luckily, crafting a delicious vegan Bird’s Custard at home is easier than you might think! Using simple plant-based ingredients, you can whip up a luscious custard that rivals the original in taste and texture.

Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free pudding base, a creamy sauce for pies, or a sweet topping, this vegan adaptation offers versatility and delight for everyone.

In this post, we’ll guide you through a foolproof vegan Bird’s Custard recipe, complete with tips and variations to customize it to your liking. You’ll also discover how to serve it in delightful ways and learn about its nutritional benefits.

Let’s dive in and bring this comforting classic into the vegan kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Bird’s Custard is a game-changer for anyone craving a silky, creamy dessert without dairy or eggs. It’s quick to prepare, using pantry-friendly ingredients that you may already have at home.

The custard is naturally sweet, with a gentle vanilla aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth.

Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile. Use it as a standalone dessert, pour it over fruit crumbles, or incorporate it into other recipes as a base.

Plus, it’s allergen-friendly, making it accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences.

If you love classic desserts like Chocolate Heaven Cake or crave creamy textures like in the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe, this custard is a perfect addition to your vegan recipe collection.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (soy, oat, or almond work well)
  • 3 tbsp custard powder (make sure it’s vegan-friendly or use cornstarch plus vanilla)
  • 3 tbsp granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of turmeric (for color, optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Heatproof bowl or serving dishes
  • Stove or induction cooker

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the custard powder, sugar, salt, and turmeric if using.
  2. Add plant milk: Gradually pour in the plant-based milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
  3. Cook the custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat and continue whisking constantly. The mixture will start to thicken after 5-7 minutes. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid burning or clumping.
  4. Simmer and thicken: Once it reaches a thick, creamy consistency, reduce the heat to low and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Remove from heat and flavor: Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate.
  6. Serve warm or chilled: Pour the custard into bowls or serving dishes. It can be enjoyed immediately warm or refrigerated for a few hours to set and chill.

Tips & Variations

Pro Tip: Use soy milk for the creamiest texture, as it has a higher protein content which helps the custard set better.

You can customize this vegan custard in several ways:

  • Flavor twists: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warming spice note.
  • Chocolate custard: Stir in 2 tbsp of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients for a chocolate version.
  • Thicker custard: Increase custard powder by 1 tbsp for a denser texture, great for layering in desserts.
  • Sweetener options: Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different sweetness profile.

For more vegan dessert inspiration, check out our Collard Green Casserole Recipes and Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe for hearty plant-based meals.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1/2 cup)
Calories 90
Protein 3g
Fat 1.5g
Carbohydrates 18g
Sugars 12g
Fiber 0g
Sodium 80mg

This vegan custard is low in fat and provides a modest amount of protein depending on the milk used. It’s a comforting, lower-calorie alternative to traditional custards.

Serving Suggestions

Bird’s Custard shines in a variety of serving styles. Here are some delicious ideas to enjoy it:

  • Classic: Serve warm over freshly baked apple crumble or fruit pies for a nostalgic dessert experience.
  • Chilled: Pour into ramekins and refrigerate to enjoy as a smooth pudding topped with fresh berries.
  • Layered desserts: Use it as a custard layer in trifles or parfaits alongside fruit and vegan sponge cake.
  • Breakfast boost: Drizzle over vegan pancakes or waffles for a creamy, flavorful topping.

For more indulgent vegan dessert recipes, try our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe or the refreshing Christmas Parfait Dessert Recipes.

Delicious Vegan Bird’s Custard Recipes

Ready to explore more ways to enjoy vegan Bird’s Custard? Here are three delightful recipes that showcase this creamy treat in different forms:

Vegan Bird’s Custard Tart

A perfect dessert for gatherings, this tart features a buttery vegan crust filled with silky custard and topped with fresh fruit.

  • Ingredients: vegan tart crust, vegan Bird’s Custard (prepared), mixed berries or sliced stone fruits.
  • Preparation: Blind bake the crust until golden. Fill with warm custard, chill until set, then garnish with fruit before serving.

Vegan Custard Trifle

This layered delight combines chunks of vegan sponge cake, custard, fruit preserves, and whipped coconut cream.

  • Ingredients: vegan sponge cake cubes, vegan Bird’s Custard, berry jam, coconut whipped cream, fresh berries.
  • Assembly: Layer cake, custard, jam, and cream in a glass dish. Repeat layers and chill for at least 2 hours to meld flavors.

Vegan Custard Breakfast Bowl

Start your day with a creamy bowl of warm custard topped with granola, nuts, and seasonal fruit.

  • Ingredients: warm vegan Bird’s Custard, crunchy granola, toasted almonds or walnuts, sliced banana or berries.
  • Serving: Pour custard into a bowl and top with your favorite crunchy and fresh ingredients for a satisfying breakfast.

These recipes are simple, adaptable, and perfect to brighten up your vegan dessert repertoire.

Conclusion

Making vegan Bird’s Custard at home is a delightful way to enjoy a traditional favorite without compromising your dietary choices. This recipe offers a creamy, rich texture and the familiar comforting vanilla flavor that everyone loves.

Its simplicity and versatility make it a fantastic staple for your kitchen, whether served on its own, as a dessert topping, or incorporated into more elaborate dishes.

As you experiment with flavors and serving ideas, you’ll find this custard becoming a go-to for both everyday treats and special occasions. For more vegan inspiration, don’t forget to explore our other recipes such as the hearty Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the vibrant Collard Green Casserole Recipes.

Happy cooking and enjoy your creamy, dreamy vegan Bird’s Custard!

📖 Recipe Card: Bird's Custard Vegan Recipe

Description: A creamy and smooth vegan custard made without eggs or dairy. Perfect as a dessert or a comforting treat.

Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT15M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon vegan butter

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk cornstarch with 1/4 cup almond milk until smooth.
  2. Heat remaining almond milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Add sugar, salt, and turmeric to the warm milk and stir.
  4. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the saucepan, whisking continuously.
  5. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and vegan butter.
  7. Pour into serving dishes and let cool before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 22 g

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Marta K

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