As a culinary expert with a passion for creating delightful desserts, I'm excited to share with you the process of making custard powder from scratch. This is a traditional method that allows you to control the quality and flavor of your custard, ensuring a delicious and authentic taste every time.

**Step 1: Understanding the Basics of Custard Powder**
Custard powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a variety of desserts, from creamy custards to rich puddings. It is essentially a pre-made mixture of cornflour (also known as cornstarch), sugar, and flavorings, often vanilla. The process of making it from scratch involves combining these key ingredients in the right proportions.

Step 2: Gathering Your Ingredients
To make custard powder, you will need the following ingredients:
- Cornflour (Cornstarch)
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract (or vanilla powder for a more intense flavor)
- A pinch of salt (optional, for balancing sweetness)

Step 3: Measuring and Mixing
Start by measuring out equal parts of cornflour and sugar by weight. For instance, if you're making a small batch, you might measure out 100 grams of each. Then, add a few drops of vanilla extract or a teaspoon of vanilla powder, depending on your preference for flavor intensity. If you're using salt, add just a pinch to enhance the overall taste without making it salty.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
Combine the cornflour, sugar, vanilla, and salt (if using) in a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients thoroughly. The goal is to create a fine, homogeneous powder with no lumps. This ensures that when you use the custard powder in a recipe, it will dissolve evenly.

Step 5: Sifting for Perfection
To achieve a smooth texture, it's important to sift the mixture. Place the mixture into a fine mesh sieve and sift it back into the bowl or onto a piece of parchment paper. This step removes any lumps and ensures a velvety texture.

**Step 6: Storing Your Homemade Custard Powder**
Once your custard powder is ready, store it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any moisture or odors. Label the container with the contents and the date of preparation for future reference.

Step 7: Using Your Custard Powder
When you're ready to use your homemade custard powder, follow a recipe that calls for store-bought custard powder. The process will be similar, typically involving combining the custard powder with milk and heating it until it thickens. As mentioned in the reference content, you would combine the custard powder with a portion of the milk to form a smooth paste before adding sugar and the rest of the milk to the saucepan.

Step 8: Adjusting for Taste and Texture
Feel free to adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter or more vanilla-flavored custard, increase the amount of sugar or vanilla extract used. Similarly, if you want a thicker or thinner custard, adjust the amount of cornflour.

By following these steps, you can create a delicious and high-quality custard powder that will enhance any dessert you choose to make. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!

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Combine custard powder and 1/4 cup of the milk in a small jug. Stir until smooth. Place custard mixture, sugar and remaining milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until custard comes to the boil and thickens. Simmer, stirring for 1 minute.read more >>