Ingredients

• whole milk - 2 cups
• granulated sugar - ½ cup
• cornstarch - 3 tablespoons
• salt - ¼ teaspoon
• vanilla extract - 2 teaspoons
• egg yolks - 3
• unsalted butter - 2 tablespoons

Instructions

1. 1.

   In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.

2. 2.

   Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.

3. 3.

   In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks to temper them.

4. 4.

   Slowly pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan, stirring constantly.

5. 5.

   Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.

6. 6.

   Pour the custard into individual serving dishes or a large bowl and let it cool to room temperature.

7. 7.

   Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.