Homemade Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble Recipe: A Healthier, Homestyle Delight

Category: Dessert

Introduction

Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble is a beloved treat in the UK, known for its creamy, sweet custard base topped with a crunchy, golden peach crumble. The original product, made by Ambrosia, has been a staple in many British households for decades, cherished for its comforting flavor and convenience. However, many fans of this dessert have wondered how to recreate it at home with healthier ingredients and customizable options. This recipe not only mirrors the original's taste and texture but also offers a nutritional boost, making it a guilt-free alternative for the whole family.

I still remember the first time I tasted Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble. It was during a visit to a friend's house, and the combination of the silky custard and the warm, fruity crumble had me hooked. But as someone who prefers homemade treats, I decided to create a version that retained the essence of the original while using fresher, healthier ingredients. After several trials and tweaks, I landed on this recipe, which has since become a favorite in my household.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble at home offers several advantages. For one, you can control the amount of sugar, making it a better option for those monitoring their sugar intake. Additionally, using fresh peaches instead of canned ones provides more natural flavor and nutrients. The homemade version is also cost-effective and allows for customization, such as adding different spices or using alternative milks for dietary preferences.

Personal Anecdote

I recall a time when I craved Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble but couldn't find it in stores. This sparked my determination to recreate it at home. Through trial and error, I experimented with various ingredients until I achieved the perfect balance of creamy custard and crunchy crumble. The first bite was pure nostalgia, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:35 minutes
• **Total Time:55 minutes
• **Yield:6 servings

Ingredients

Custard Base:

• 2 cups (480ml) whole milk (or plant-based milk alternative)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar (or 1/3 cup honey/maple syrup for a healthier alternative)
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract

Peach Filling:

• 4 cups (500g) sliced fresh peaches (or 2 cups canned peaches in natural juice, drained)
• 2 tbsp (30g) honey or maple syrup (optional)
• 1 tbsp (15g) cornstarch (if using fresh peaches)
• 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon

Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup (120g) rolled oats
• 1/2 cup (60g) whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped almonds (optional, for added crunch)

Instructions

• Prepare the Peaches:

• If using fresh peaches, heat them in a saucepan with honey/maple syrup and cinnamon over medium heat until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in cornstarch to thicken the mixture. Let cool slightly.

  • If using canned peaches, skip this step and proceed to the next.

• Make the Custard Base:

• In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is hot but not boiling.

  • In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking continuously to prevent curdling.
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

• Assemble the Dessert:

• Pour the cooled custard into a 9x9-inch baking dish. Top with the prepared peach filling, spreading it evenly.

• Prepare the Crumble Topping:

• In a bowl, mix together oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. If using almonds, fold them in at this stage.

• Bake the Crumble:

• Spread the crumble topping evenly over the peach layer.

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

• Cool and Serve:

• Let the dessert cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup and reduce the amount of sugar in the custard and crumble topping.
• Vegan Option: Replace dairy with plant-based milks, use coconut oil instead of butter, and substitute eggs with a flax egg or tapioca starch.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a unique flavor.

Pro Tips

• Perfect Custard: Ensure the custard base doesn't boil, as it can curdle. Stir constantly and remove from heat as soon as it thickens.
• Crunchy Crumble: For an extra crispy topping, bake the crumble mixture in a separate pan for 10 minutes before adding it to the dessert.
• Fresh Flavor: Use seasonal fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Absolutely! Fresh peaches and natural sweeteners are encouraged for better flavor and nutrition.

• What can I do if the custard turns out too runny?
  Allow it to cool and refrigerate for a few hours. It will thicken as it chills.

• How do I make it last longer?
  Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed.

• Is this recipe suitable for dietary restrictions?
  With substitutions like plant-based milks and vegan butter, it can be adapted to accommodate various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.
• Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel for added flavor.
• Enjoy as a breakfast treat with a dollop of yogurt.

Conclusion

This homemade Ambrosia Devon Custard and Peach Crumble recipe offers a delicious and healthier alternative to the store-bought version. With its customizable ingredients and simple preparation, it's perfect for families, health-conscious individuals, and anyone looking to recreate a beloved treat with a personal touch. Give it a try and enjoy the nostalgic flavors of Ambrosia in the comfort of your own home!