Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Custard:

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • ⅓ cup powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Layer:

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced (reserve a few slices for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered erythritol (optional, if strawberries aren’t sweet enough)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For Serving:

  • ½ cup whipped cream (unsweetened or lightly sweetened with keto-friendly sweetener)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Strawberry Base

Wash and hull the strawberries. Dice them into small pieces and place them in a bowl with lemon juice and sweetener. Let them macerate for 10 minutes while you prepare the custard. This process brings out their natural juices and makes the fruit more flavorful without adding sugar.

Step 2 – Heat the Cream Mixture

In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream and almond milk. Warm it gently over medium heat until just steaming (do not let it boil). Remove from heat once small bubbles form around the edges.

Step 3 – Whisk the Egg Yolks

In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, powdered erythritol, vanilla, and salt until smooth and pale. This will give your custard that silky base.

Step 4 – Temper the Eggs

Slowly pour about half a cup of the hot cream mixture into the yolks while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling. Once combined, slowly add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the rest of the cream, whisking continuously.

Step 5 – Cook the Custard

Return the saucepan to low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the custard thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon (about 6–8 minutes). Do not let it boil or the custard may curdle.

Step 6 – Chill the Custard

Remove from heat and strain through a fine sieve into a bowl to ensure a silky texture. Let it cool slightly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.

Step 7 – Assemble the Dessert

In serving glasses or ramekins, spoon a layer of strawberries at the bottom. Pour chilled custard over the top, then add a few extra strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream. Finish with mint leaves if desired.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Custard

  1. Don’t Rush the Cooking – Custard requires low heat and patience. Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
  2. Use Fresh Strawberries – The better your fruit, the better your dessert. Choose ripe, sweet berries for maximum flavor.
  3. Sweetener Options – Powdered erythritol works best, but you can also use stevia or monk fruit blends. Avoid granulated sweetener as it won’t dissolve smoothly.
  4. Make Ahead – Custard can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
  5. Dairy-Free Version – Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and almond milk for coconut milk.

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder to the custard for a chocolate-strawberry combination.
  • Berry Medley: Replace strawberries with raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of keto-friendly berries.
  • Layered Parfait: Alternate layers of custard, strawberries, and keto granola for extra crunch.
  • Frozen Version: Pour custard into popsicle molds with strawberries for a frozen summer treat.

Storage Instructions

  • Store assembled desserts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the custard in an airtight container to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
  • Strawberries should be added fresh for best results, but they can also be mixed in ahead of time for a softer, compote-style texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, 1 of 6)

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Net Carbs: 4 g

WW SmartPoints (per serving, using low-fat substitutions)

  • Green Plan: 3 points
  • Blue Plan: 3 points
  • Purple Plan: 3 points

(Using heavy cream will increase points slightly; substituting part of the cream with almond milk keeps it lower.)

Why You’ll Love This Dessert

  • Keto-Friendly – Only 4g net carbs per serving.
  • Elegant & Easy – Impressive presentation with minimal effort.
  • Versatile – Works as a quick weeknight dessert or a holiday dinner finale.
  • Light Yet Indulgent – Creamy custard balanced by fresh fruit.

Final Thoughts

This Keto Strawberry Creamy Custard Dessert is proof that you don’t have to compromise flavor when eating low-carb. It combines the comfort of traditional custard with the freshness of strawberries, making it the ideal guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re serving it to family, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day, it’s a dessert that delivers both health and satisfaction.

Enjoy it chilled, savor every spoonful, and remember — healthy eating can still feel luxurious.