This Elegant Vanilla Blancmange is a timeless dessert that combines simplicity with sophistication in every silky spoonful. With just 15 minutes of prep and a quick 5-minute cook time, it’s surprisingly easy to create a treat that feels indulgent yet light. The smooth, creamy texture melts on your tongue, while the delicate vanilla flavor offers a comforting sweetness that’s perfect for any occasion.
After a brief chill in the fridge for 4 hours, this dessert transforms into a cool, velvety delight that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Its airy, pudding-like consistency pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself, this blancmange is a refreshing and elegant way to end any meal.
Ingredients for Elegant Vanilla Blancmange
- 1 cup (8 fl oz/225 ml) whole milk (for the slurry)
- 3½ cups (28 fl oz/790 ml) whole milk (for heating)
- ⅔ cup (2⅔ oz/76 g) cornstarch (or substitute with arrowroot powder for a similar texture)
- ⅔ cup (5 oz/142 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract (use pure vanilla for the best flavor)
- Fresh fruit (for serving, such as berries or sliced peaches)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the teacups: Place six small individual teacups on a tray and set them aside.
- Make the slurry: In a small bowl, whisk 1 cup (8 fl oz/225 ml) of milk with the cornstarch until smooth. Whisk in the sugar and vanilla paste or extract. Set aside.
- Heat the milk: In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3½ cups (28 fl oz/790 ml) of milk over medium-low heat until it starts steaming (do not boil).
- Combine and thicken: Reduce the heat to low and whisk the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk. Continue to heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and is just under boiling (about 5-7 minutes). The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.
- Divide and cool: Pour the mixture evenly into the prepared teacups. Let cool on the counter for 1 hour.
- Chill: Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the blancmange is cold and set.
- Serve: Serve with fresh fruit either in the teacups or carefully unmold onto plates. To unmold, dip the cup in hot water for a few seconds, then run a thin knife around the rim and invert onto a plate.
- Store: Keep leftovers well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enhance Your Blancmange with Delicious Toppings
While fresh fruit is a classic choice, consider elevating your blancmange with berry coulis or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a touch of indulgence. For a nutty twist, sprinkle crushed toasted almonds or pistachios on top. Seasonal fruits like poached pears or roasted figs also pair beautifully with the creamy vanilla flavor.
Serving Ideas That Wow
For an elegant presentation, unmold the blancmange onto dessert plates and garnish with edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also serve it in clear glasses layered with fruit compote for a stunning visual effect. A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and freshness.
Mastering the Art of Unmolding
To unmold your blancmange seamlessly, dip the teacup briefly in hot water to loosen the edges. Run a thin knife around the rim, then turn it over onto a plate. If it doesn’t release immediately, tap the bottom of the cup gently. Patience is key—ensure the blancmange is fully set before attempting this step for the best results.
Customize Your Blancmange with Creative Variations
Experiment with different flavors by replacing vanilla extract with almond or rosewater essence. For a chocolate twist, whisk in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the slurry. You can also infuse the milk with citrus zest or lavender for a fragrant twist that’s uniquely yours.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Prepare the blancmange the night before to save time—it needs at least 4 hours to set in the fridge. Use pre-measured ingredients to streamline the process, and opt for vanilla paste for a quicker, richer flavor infusion. If you’re short on teacups, silicone molds work great and make unmolding even easier!
Elegant Vanilla Blancmange Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk (8floz/225ml)
- 3½ cups whole milk (28oz/790ml)
- ⅔ cup cornstarch (2⅔oz/76g)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (5oz/142g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla paste or extract
- fresh fruit to serve
Instructions
- Place six small individual teacups on a tray and set them aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk 1 cup (8oz/225ml) milk with the cornstarch to form a slurry. Whisk in the sugar and vanilla paste or extract. Set aside.
- In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3½ cups (28oz/790ml) of milk over medium-low heat until it starts steaming.
- Reduce the heat to low and whisk the cornstarch mixture into the warm milk. Continue to heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and is just under boiling. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
- Divide evenly among your teacups and let cool on the counter for an hour.
- Once cool, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, until cold and set.
- Serve with fruit either in the bowls or carefully unmold onto plates by dipping the cup in hot water and then running a thin knife carefully around the rim. Store, well covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
