This creamy, icy treat is part cocktail, part dessert—and all comfort. The Egg Custard Crush is sweet, rich, and surprisingly refreshing. It’s like sipping a slice of custard pie, chilled to perfection. I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails that always hits the spot when I want something indulgent but not too heavy.
Egg Custard Crush
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Glassware: Old-fashioned glass or Mason jar
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. You can prep the custard base ahead and chill it for up to 24 hours.
Ingredients
– 1 large egg yolk (about 20ml)
– 2 oz (60ml) sweetened condensed milk
– ¼ tsp (1.25ml) pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup (240ml) crushed ice
– Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, for garnish)
Substitutions & Notes
– Swap sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream or oat-based condensed milk for a dairy-free version.
– If you’re avoiding raw egg, use pasteurized eggs or an egg yolk substitute like aquafaba (not quite the same texture, but it’ll do in a pinch).
– Don’t have nutmeg? A sprinkle of cinnamon or even chocolate shavings works great on top.
Method
- In a small bowl or blender, whisk together 1 egg yolk, 2 oz sweetened condensed milk, and ¼ tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You’re aiming for a silky texture—like a custard base before it gets baked.
- Fill your chilled glass with crushed ice. If you don’t have crushed ice, pulse regular ice cubes in a blender or wrap them in a clean towel and give them a few good whacks with a rolling pin.
- Pour the custard mixture over the ice. Stir gently so it seeps down and chills all the way through.
- Finish with a pinch of nutmeg on top, if using. Serve immediately with a straw or small spoon.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: chilling your glass ahead of time keeps the drink colder longer and gives it that extra-refreshing edge.
Tips & Tricks
- Use fresh eggs: It really makes a difference in flavor and safety. Look for pasteurized if you’re unsure.
- Don’t skip the stir: Mixing the custard into the ice gives it that slushy, creamy texture—it won’t be the same if you just pour and sip.
- Watch the sweetness: Sweetened condensed milk is rich. If you prefer a lighter touch, try using 1½ oz (45ml) instead and taste as you go.
Make-Ahead Note
You can mix the egg yolk, condensed milk, and vanilla ahead of time and store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. Just give it a stir before pouring over ice.
Serving Suggestions
The Egg Custard Crush is great on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
Spicy Snacks
Try it with spiced nuts, jalapeño poppers, or even buffalo wings. The creaminess cools the heat perfectly.
Light Cakes
Serve alongside a slice of angel food or sponge cake. The textures play off each other in the best way.
Fruit Tarts
The vanilla and custard flavors balance the tart fruit beautifully.
Variations
Cinnamon Swirl
Add ¼ tsp ground cinnamon to the blend and a little more sprinkled on top. It gives the drink a warm, spiced twist.
Chocolate Custard Crush
Swap the vanilla extract for 1 tsp of chocolate syrup. Drizzle extra syrup over the top for a dessert-worthy finish.
Vegan Version
Use 2 oz (60ml) coconut cream and 1–2 tsp maple syrup in place of the egg yolk and condensed milk. Add a drop of vanilla extract. Blend with crushed ice and garnish with a mint leaf.
FAQs
Is it safe to drink raw eggs?
If you’re using fresh, high-quality eggs—or pasteurized ones—yes. But if you’re worried, egg substitutes work too.
Can I make it lactose-free?
Definitely. Use a lactose-free or plant-based sweetened condensed milk. Coconut cream also works well.
Can I make it ahead for a party?
Yes! Blend the egg yolk, condensed milk, and vanilla ahead of time. Store it chilled, then pour over fresh crushed ice when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have a blender?
No problem. Just whisk the custard mix by hand until smooth and creamy. For the ice, use a rolling pin or mallet to crush it.
Any nut-free options?
The base recipe is nut-free. Just skip nut-based garnishes or extracts like almond or hazelnut.
Try It Your Way
This drink’s creamy base makes it easy to get creative. Try adding a splash of espresso for a custard-coffee blend, or infuse the milk with lavender or cardamom for something floral and unexpected.
It’s like having your favorite dessert and a cocktail all in one glass—what’s not to love?
